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Jan
9
Written by:
news editor
Friday, January 09, 2009
01/09/09 ODNR recently updated a searchable, online database that will make it easier for teachers to introduce students to important environmental issues.
Database Helps Teachers Fit Environmental Education into Lesson Plans
COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently updated a searchable, online database that will make it easier for teachers to introduce students to important environmental issues.
Ohio educators can select interactive, state-approved lessons from Project Learning Tree, Project WET, Project WILD and Windows on the Wild based on specific areas of study (science or social studies) and/or grade levels. The comprehensive environmental education programs, which are sponsored by ODNR Divisions of Forestry, Soil and Water Conservation, Water and Wildlife, are aligned with Ohio Academic Content Standards for social studies and science.
"Interaction with nature, be it through structured curricula or free play, enhances young people's cognitive flexibility, sharpens critical thinking, hones problem solving skills and develops the imagination," said ODNR Director Sean Logan, citing research by The Trust for Public Land and others. "The ODNR database will make it easier for educators to bring conservation issues into the classroom by providing valuable, interdisciplinary learning opportunities that are suitable for their students."
In 2007, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency helped fund the alignment of the curricula with Ohio's social studies content standards. The programs had already received the Ohio Environmental Education Fund Outstanding Project Award for aligning the student activities with the Ohio Department of Education's standards for science education.
Coordinators for the programs will continue work to correlate the activities to the Ohio Academic Content Standards for English-Language Arts and Technology.
Teachers looking for more information about Project Learning Tree, Project WET, Project WILD and Windows on the Wild or the searchable database can visit www.ohiodnr.com/education/correlations/.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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For further information, contact:
Sue Wintering, ODNR Division of Forestry
614. 265. 6657
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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