Activity
Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) Outcomes and Experiences
Design a "Protect Our Place" Poster/Slogan
Social Studies:
SOC 2-08a: I can discuss the environmental impact of human activity and suggest ways in which we can live in a more environmentally-responsible way.
SOC 3-08a: I can identify the possible consequences of an environmental issue and make informed suggestions about ways to manage the impact
Science:
SCN 2-02a: I can use my knowledge of the interactions and energy flow between plants and animals in ecosystems, food chains and webs
SCN 3-02a: I can demonstrate my understanding of why plants are vital to sustaining life on Earth.
SCN 3-05b: I can explain some of the processes which contribute to climate change and discuss the possible impact of atmospheric change on the survival of living things.
Duration Materials 20 min
Copy of A Window Into Outdoor pages 20 - 25 Large sheet of paper (A3 or A4) per group/individual. Pencils, coloured pencils, or pens.
Optional: Small sticky notes or scrap paper for quick ideas.
Activity Instructions
1 Introduction: "We're going to think about how we can help 'protect our planet' – whether that's our school grounds, local park, or even wider Scotland. First, let's refresh our understanding of conservation. Read the ‘Conservation' and 'Biodiversity' text. Focus on what conservation means, why biodiversity is important, and why we need to conserve things."
2."On your paper, write down two things you think might harm or threaten animals or plants in your local area (or Scotland in general, if you prefer). Think about things like litter, building new houses, or even climate change that the text mentions. Don't worry if it's not directly in the text."
3. "Let's share a few ideas. What threats did you identify? Why are these a problem for nature?" (Encourage brief explanations).”
4 Activity: Design a ‘Protect Our Place’ Poster/Slogan. "Now, imagine you are launching a 'Protect Our Place' campaign to encourage people to help with conservation. Your task is to create a small mini-poster or a powerful slogan that raises awareness and encourages action."
5.Instructions:
Choose Your Focus: "Will your campaign focus on protecting a specific animal (like the red squirrel), a type of habitat (like the coast or a local park), or a general conservation message?”
Create Your Message: "On your paper, design a simple mini-poster. This should include:
A Catchy Slogan: Something short and memorable.
A Simple Image/Symbol: A quick sketch of an animal, a tree, a clean landscape, or a conservation symbol.
Key Action/Reason: Something simple people can do, or a reason why conservation is important (e.g., 'Recycle!', 'Help Biodiversity!'
Use colours and make it eye-catching
Justify Your Message: "Below your poster/slogan, quickly write one sentence explaining why you chose that message, and how it connects to conservation."
Presenting: Ask the pupils to share their campaign ideas with the class!
6 Wrap-Up: “What was one thing you learned today about working with people and the environment?"
Extension Task: Ask the pupils to create a short, persuasive 'pitch' for their campaign to convince others to join and hold a vote where the pupils decide the winner.