These documents provide summaries of teacher-created units result from our professional development approaches.  We will be adding new examples;  join our mailing list to stay informed.

Note: Examples that are not PDFs will open in a new window.

K-5

K-5 Science Integration: This document provides one teacher's suggestions for integrating sustainability concepts into the elementary science curriculum, K-5. (PDF, 5 pages)

4th Grade Interdisciplinary : This unit focuses on sustainable communities and the Ecological Footprint. Concepts taught include interdependence of human and natural systems, human-environmental interactions, climate and weather, and decisions to support a healthy and sustainable community. The unit integrates science, social studies, language arts and math. (PDF, 6 pages)

4th Curriculum Map Makeover:  This is an example of a curriculum map "makeover." The example includes excerpts of written feedback given to the teachers. (PDF, 4 pages)

4th Grade Community Unit Makeover:  This is an example of a unit "makeover." The example includes excerpts of written feedback given to the teachers. (PDF, 6 pages)

4-5 Grade Course Makeover (food systems) : This example describes a "makeover" of an enrichment course to focus on sustainable food systems. The course is an excellent example of designing powerful instruction using "Big Ideas," essential interdisciplinary outcomes. (PDF, 7 pages)

5th Grade Ecological Footprint: This unit focuses on the Ecological Footprint and includes detailed descriptions assessment outcomes and links to standards. (PDF, 18 pages)

Grades 6-8

6th grade Science Unit Makeover : This document shows a side-by-side "before" and "after" comparison of a physical science unit that the teacher reframed to be more rigorous and engaging. A good example of how a sustainability lens enhances existing approaches by providing greater depth on authentic content.

8th grade physical education  : This unit uses cooperative learning and team games to teach skills such as cooperation, giving feedback, and group planning. The unit also addresses the concepts of systems and interdependence. (PDF, 11 pages)

6-8 Spanish : In this example, students learn vocabulary and verbal forms as they develop environmental communication materials for peers. (PDF, 4 pages)

6-8 Science and Social Studies  : This unit focuses on the types of energy and conservation of multiple natural resources. (PDF, 8 pages)

6-8 Interdisciplinary: This example provides excellent integration of science, social studies and language arts using energy, culture, and sustainability as connecting themes.

Grades 9-12

9-12 Music: This unique example draws links between sound, materials use for instruments (focus on rosewood), and the concept of regeneration in sustainability.

9-12 Science : This unit explores human-environmental interactions and the role of societal attitudes, ethics, and culture. (PDF, 22 pages)