Case study of urban environmental education in the intermediate-grade curriculum: an investigation of content and process
This case study was an attempt to divulge the presence of environmental education (EE) in the intermediate-grade curriculum, along with the factors influencing it both positively and negatively. It was designed in response to Goal No. 7 of the New York State Regents Action Plan, which advocates EE in all subject areas and at all grade levels. The site of the study was a public school in Queens, New York, The participants included 7 teachers, the school librarian, 2 administrators, and 15 fourth, fifth, and sixth graders, as well as 3 educators from outside the school. This research was conducted between February and June, 1986. The data-collection techniques involved observations, in-depth interviews, and artifact reviews. The findings revealed that EE does exist both blatantly and subtly in the intermediate-grade curriculum; however, much more can be done. In science, exploration of plants, animals, energy, climate, air and water quality are replete with environmental ramifications. In social studies, consideration of the dependence of human cultural development on the natural environment is key. Environmental themes are employed to teach mathematical, reading, and language arts skills. Much music is developed around the imitation of the sounds of nature. Current events bring environmental issues to the foreground.
- Research Organization:
- Saint John's Univ., Jamaica, NY (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5855048
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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