Netwatch - Professionally Speaking

Kids save the world with this issue’s NetWatch resources. Past editions of NetWatch and additional sites for some topics can be found online at the Archives.

by Lynda Scarrow

Tools to build a better planet

Voices of Youth

www.unicef.org/voy

a better world for children

UNICEF’s beautifully designed site features powerful messages on child rights, children and disabilities, global warming, carbon footprints and many other issues. There’s a radio-drama competition and a video contest plus lots of discussion forums and sections like Young Voices from Conflict Zones and an extensive youth-created online art exhibit.

Schools for a Living Planet

wwf.ca/schools

curriculum resources

World Wildlife Fund Canada’s Schools for a Living Planet offers over 30 curriculum-linked, printable in-class activities for Grades 3 to 8. Each unit is school board approved and has a unique environmental theme designed to meet curriculum expectations in English, social studies and science. You’ll need to sign in to access the materials, but it’s worthwhile to do so.

Ecokids Canada

ecokids.ca

green games

This is one of my favourite sites because it’s easy to navigate, the graphics are great and it offers a lot of solid information. Games like Fishing Frenzy are fun and lead to additional detailed information, including curriculum connections for teachers and homework help for kids.

Save the Planet

squidoo.com/groups/save-the-planet

Wikipedia’s cousin

Similar to Wikipedia, Squidoo is compiled by self-proclaimed experts. The good ones provide links to books and supplementary information. Lenses are ranked by users. Save the Planet offers information on wind turbines, green living and a new way to compost. Scroll down the page to RSS news feeds from environmental organizations around the world.

Learning to Give

learningtogive.org

social consciousness

This site helps children and teens develop a sense of philanthropy globally and within their communities. Under “teachers,” you’ll find approximately 1,200 lesson plans listed by grade. Many references are to American states, but move deeper and you’ll discover fully developed, detailed lesson plans that are not geographically restricted.

Evergreen

evergreen.ca

environmental resources

Evergreen’s Learning Grounds, in the left navigation bar, has support and resources for creating outdoor classrooms, while Resource – Project Registry lets you share information about community environmental projects.