This week, we learned … … what happens when 26,000 stinkbugs invade your home. And they will. Read of the week! Could a cold winter threaten the stinkbugs? … how urban leopards improve human health. Use our idea set to find nature in your own urban area. … what happens when a centuries-old cultural tradition (onsen) clashes with 21st-century sustainability (geothermal … Continue reading 11 Things We Learned This Week
ENVIRONMENT It turns out that Florida’s prettiest pinkos are natives of the Sunshine State after all. (National Geographic) Learn more about American flamingos with the Photo Ark! Discussion Ideas What is the species range of the American flamingo? Until recently, the species range of the American flamingo was thought to be mostly in the countries of the Caribbean—hence the bird’s other name, the Caribbean flamingo. … Continue reading Florida’s Flamingos Were Hiding in Plain Sight
ENVIRONMENT In the Swiss Alps, efforts to stop glacial melting have become commonplace. Each year, for example, a group of residents makes its way to the Rhône Glacier to cover up the ice in huge white blankets. (Smithsonian) Adapt our activity to learn more about how light-colored surfaces have a cooling effect on Earth. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in … Continue reading Switzerland Protects the Alps with a Blanket
ENVIRONMENT New research shows a trend of vultures avoiding Portugal in favor of Spain, and human activity is likely to blame. (BBC) How else are vultures adapting their species ranges? Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas Portugal is a nice place! Why are vultures avoiding it? Read through the short BBC article for some help. … Continue reading Why Vultures Avoid Portugal
by Stephanie Harvey An adage attributed to E.B. White reminds us to “Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.” You can’t help but ask questions and react to information in a room filled-to-bursting with great text, stirring images, and actively engaged students. Content-rich classrooms create irresistible, stimulating environments that fuel kids’ natural curiosity. The real world is fascinating and compelling, so let’s … Continue reading Stop, Think, and React to New Information when Reading Nonfiction
