Sustainable Communities Virtual Field Trip (Google Earth)

Take your students on a virtual field trip to learn about sustainable communities! Using a combination of Google Earth™ 360° views, informational text, video, and visuals, your students will learn about design solutions that reduce the impact of human activity on natural systems.

This virtual field trip covers:

:: What are sustainable communities?

:: Earthships, New Mexico (self-sufficient living & upcycled materials)

:: Biosphere 2, Arizona (largest closed earth system)

:: Zero Waste Town, Japan (impact of recycling & community policy)

:: Solar Power Complex, Morocco (clean energy & reduction of imports)

:: Ecovillage, Scotland (eco-friendly living & misconceptions)

This Virtual Field Trip Includes:

:: Informational Text (build background knowledge)

:: Response Questions (EDITABLE)

:: Google Earth™ Links to 360° views

:: Video Links

:: Grading Rubric

:: Everything is set up in Google Slides & ready to go!

SEE PREVIEW FOR MORE DETAILS

How it Works:

This virtual field trip can be conducted teacher-led or shared with students through Google Classroom as an independent assignment. Everything is set up for you. This resource is LOW PREP and would even make great sub plans. Student directions are found within the lesson, and direct links are included to specific Google Earth™ locations and videos. All work is completed digitally. No printing necessary.

Structure:

This virtual field trip is structured. This means that the informational text and links are meaningful and are meant to lead students to think critically as they respond to the questions throughout the virtual field trip. This is also a great way to keep students accountable as they learn and explore. All response questions are EDITABLE, so you can tailor to your class needs. Students complete this activity in edit mode of Google Slides.

Standards Alignment:

:: Next Generation Science Standards Human Sustainability & Earth & Human Activity

:: Common Core Standards for Reading Informational Text

:: Washington Social Studies Geography Standards

:: Can be used as a cross-curricular activity as it fits many different standards

Grading Rubric:

A grading rubric is included which assesses: accuracy, thoroughness, validity, and writing conventions. Answers will vary throughout, as students are recording their observations and findings.

Technology:

Please note that students will need to access Google Earth™ to complete this assignment. Google Earth™ can be accessed on a desktop using Chrome as the browser. If using a tablet or smartphone, simply download the Google Earth App before starting the virtual field trip. Your students will also need access to YouTube to view the video clips. Video clips are editable and have been modified to remove ads.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out prior to purchasing. Looking for another virtual field trip that you don’t see? Let me know! I can be reached directly by email at: michellemcdonald9515@gmail.com

Thank you!

Michelle McDonald, B.A.E.

Social Studies Education, K-12

Elementary Education K-8

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