There’s A Better Way to Teach
Climate and Environmental Science.

We integrate:

  • Regional climate and environmental science. The science of your own backyard.

  • Next Generation Science Standards. Students examine the date, think critically and emulate the work of scientists. (Meet SkyDay Curriculum Director and NGSS Specialist Jesse Semeyn)

  • Intergenerational Learning. Such an important - and under appreciated - mechanism for learning. (Meet SkyDay Intergenerational Learning Director Dr. Danielle Lawson)

  • The latest science. We are guided by the most credible scientists in the field and we allow students to wrestle with the knowns and unknowns. (See our team)

  • Action Projects. Students create change and apply learning to their community.

Our First Unit: What is Happening to the Rusty Patched Bumblebee?

An exemplary five lesson NGSS unit for Grades 6-8 , Grades 9-12 and a shorter version for APES. Did you know this native pollinator has lost 80% of its range in the last 20 years? Today it is the first native pollinator to be put on the endangered species list. What is happening? Why should you care?

Backstory
When we read this excellent NC State study published in Nature Climate Change we were inspired to bring the approach they used to Illinois schools. The study demonstrated that a rigorous NGSS unit on climate change when (i) focussed on local impacts and (ii) combined with parent engagement pieces and outdoor service projects not only taught the students to care more about climate and environment but promoted parent/guardian environmental concern too - even among those traditionally hardest to convince. That is a huge win for our community.

The Unit
In collaboration with expert NGSS writer Jesse Semeyn and the Center for Educational Initiatives at Illinois State University ‘What is happening to the Rusty Patched Bumblebee?’ is now in pilot at Illinois middle and high schools statewide and is now also offered for APES. The unit guides students in using science and engineering practices to make sense of the functioning of the Rusty Patched Bumblebee’s ecosystem. Students figure out the effects of changes to the ecosystem on the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee. The unit introduces the changing patterns in our climate and students apply their learning to predict the effects of Climate Change on the ecosystem and the species that rely on it.  Learning is extended beyond the walls of the classroom when students create blog posts, engage in intergenerational conversations, and design actionable solutions to the problem of the decline of this keystone species. Questions? Contact