Lesson Plans for NWT and Alberta Secondary Science Classrooms
Freshwater river systems are the basis of livelihood and well-being in northern communities. Changes to these systems due to climate heating, extractive industries, and other economic activities are immediately experienced by community members, young and old – both on the land and within social and cultural life. It is critical that young people in northern communities learn how to understand changes to the land and water – and consider ways to act and address the issue to create healthy futures.
These lesson plans draw upon extensive research done through Tracking Change with Indigenous peoples and other land users, including youth, to meet learning outcomes for NWT and Alberta Science courses. Indigenous knowledge informs all lesson plans, connecting youth to their Elders, histories, lands, languages, and cultures in vital ways. Lessons are inquiry-based, relevant to young people in northern contexts, and adaptable for a variety of learners, containing options for customization and extension for keen students. Lessons may be used in all northern school contexts, including land-based schools.
We welcome all science teachers, from those well-versed in Indigenous knowledge to those who are new to the north, to integrate these lessons into your classrooms. Our teacher resources are available to help you get started!