Education

4-H and Extension Environmental Education

4-H Environmental Sustainability Action provides ready-to-go environmental activities for youth grades 1-8. Environmental project ideas can also be found on the UW Extension 4-H projects website, ranging from topics such as energy, conservation, and soil science.

Digital Observation Technology Skills (DOTS) kits contain instruments that students can use to take measurements and test simple hypotheses about the environmental and ecological differences across the local landscape. Check this lesson plan that utilizes the DOTS kit: Capturing Your Environment Framework. Wisconsin 4-H educators can request DOTS kits by contacting Dr. Justin Hougham.

Resources for Teachers and Students

The Wisconsin Climate Education Hub offers quick, easy access to 2000+ climate resources by subject, grade level, and Wisconsin Academic Standards that are teacher approved and scientist reviewed resources to support the state’s requirement for environmental education.

UW–Madison welcomes K-12 classes, homeschool groups, 4-H, and youth groups for Cross-Campus Science Field Trips. Teachers and youth leaders can explore in-person and virtual options for these interactive field trips and tours.

Kid Wind helps teachers and students creatively explore the science, technology, and implications of a world powered by clean energy. Check out the activity guides here.

Upham Woods

Since 1941, Upham Woods has provided a setting for people of all ages to experience the natural world. With over 300 acres of land and 4 unique ecosystems located just north of Wisconsin Dells on the Wisconsin River, Upham Woods offers the perfect place to learn about and enjoy both the natural and cultural histories of Wisconsin.

For interested teachers, group leaders, or parents, let Upham Woods help you plan your visit or explore upcoming events.

Effective Climate Change Communication

Communicating about climate change is a nuanced challenge. Sharing the facts alone is not enough—a multitude of
social and cultural factors shape people’s attitudes and behaviors related to climate change. Follow these slides from UW Extension’s “Putting into Practice the Principles of Effective Climate Change Communication” workshop to learn more about audience segmentation, word choices, values and agency, social norms, misinformation, and how these affect the ways that climate messaging is received.

This worksheet will guide you through some of the principles of effective climate change communication, informed by social science research. Use this worksheet when you are thinking strategically about how to reach your desired audience(s).