Teach Your Curriculum Using Environmental Themes

Grade 2

Theme 1 - Habitats and Communities

Curriculum links for this unit: Science Unit E: Small Crawling and Flying Animals 1. Recognize that there are many different kinds of small crawling and flying animals, and identify a range of examples that are found locally. 3. Recognize that small animals, like humans, have homes where they meet their basic needs of air, food, water, shelter and space; and describe any special characteristics that help the animal survive in its home. 5. Describe the relationships of these animals to other living and nonliving things in their habitat, and to people. Social Studies 2.1 Canada's Dynamic Communities Students will demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of how geography, culture, language, heritage, economics and resources shape and change Canada's communities. Social Studies 2.2 A Community in the Past Students will demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of how a community emerged, and of how the various interactions and cooperation among peoples ensure the continued growth and vitality of the community. Language Arts Record key facts in own words Record ideas and information in ways that make sense. See also: www.education.gov.ab.ca/k_12/curriculum/bySubject/ for more information.

Activities Daily Observations Question Hunt – What’s Happening in our Community? Community Question Board comparison Comparing Communities A visit with an “elder”

Download this unit plan: grade2-theme1.doc (8 pages, ~270K)

Theme 2 - Adapting to Our Environment

Curriculum links for this unit: Science Unit D: Hot and Cold Temperatures 9. Identify materials that insulate animals from the cold; e.g., wool, fur and feathers; and identify materials that are used by humans for the same purpose. 11. Describe ways in which temperature changes affect us in our daily lives. Social Studies 2.1 Canada's Dynamic Communities Students will demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of how geography, culture, language, heritage, economics and resources shape and change Canada's communities. Language Arts Evaluate gathered information; Distinguish between fact and opinion See also: www.education.gov.ab.ca/k_12/curriculum/bySubject/ for more information.

Activities Comparing animal size, shape and “clothing” Cultural Collage Hot and Cold Going on a Trip

Download this unit plan: grade2-theme2.doc (3 pages, ~240K)