by Melissa Boardman, University Park Creative Arts Elementary
I developed this WebQuest to help students learn about Earth Day and the ways that they can help protect our Earth. Students will learn the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling through songs, stories, videos, and games. Their final project is to use the information gained to create an informational and persuasive poster encouraging their peers to observe Earth Day every day.
Introduction
Earth Day is a special that celebrates our great planet! This year, Earth Day will be celebrated on April 22, 2009. Earth Day first was recognized on April 22, 1970 (that was 49 years ago)! The idea was started by a former United States Senator named Gaylord Nelson. He knew that many plants and animals were dying because our world was getting dirty and not very many people were doing anything to make it better. He decided to have a special day to teach everyone about ways they could make the environment better. “So, on April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was held. People all over the country made promises to help the environment. Everyone got involved and since then, Earth Day has spread all over the planet” (Moon, n.d.).
You can read the whole story here.
