Environmental Education

by Winnie Wade and Colin Hughes

Published October 1994
Environmental education features in some way in all the subject curriculums and most specifically in science, geography, history and as a cross-curricular theme. This book brings together the body of knowledge in all these areas and shows how it can be taught efficiently and effectively using different contexts related to children's own environments. It begins with the local, concrete and familiar (shops, garden, churchyard, theme park) to lead children to greater understanding of the global issues. An investigative approach is taken and a chapter is devoted to outlining the skills needed for collection and analysis of data - as well as one on the management and organization of "fieldwork".

This book aims to increase the confidence and competence of non-specialist primary teachers to help their pupils develop the necessary exploration skills in science. The individual process skills are analyzed and related to whole investigations, and opportunities for progression are identified and exemplified with classroom applications. The main part of the book considers, in detail, a number of theme-based investigations including water, seasons, local environment, ourselves, the kitchen, weather, toys and energy, clothes and fabrics. Ways of assessing and recording children's achievements are suggested.


This book is designed for all primary teachers wanting to meet the demands of the NC while continuing to work in a cross-curricular way. Not only does it emphasize the value of an integrated approach to the curriculum but it also shows how it can be done. The book begins with an examination of whole school curriculum planning, suggesting a number of alternative models for planning projects. The bulk of the book provides detailed "working models" of a variety of projects with main focuses in one curriculum area and minor focuses in others. Activities are outlined, resources are listed and help with organizations and management given for each project. The book also includes a chapter on assessing and evaluating projects.