Hello friends,
Welcome back to another exciting installment on mastering the IBDP English B course! It's been some time since our last post, and I'm thrilled to reconnect with all of you as we dive into more enriching content. As our students gear up for their exams, I've been reflecting on the theme 'Sharing the Planet'—a unit that resonates deeply in today's educational landscape. I've compiled a range of resources and topics that have proven highly effective in engaging my students. As always, I'm pleased to offer these materials for free. All I ask in return is that if you find them useful, please share my work with others and tag your applications of these resources on social media using (@matttfletcher). Let's continue to learn and grow together!
In our interconnected world, the theme 'Sharing the Planet' encourages students to explore the intricate and often delicate interactions between human societies and the Earth's ecosystems. This theme is particularly relevant in today's context, where environmental sustainability and conservation are pressing global issues. It provides a vast scope for inquiry and discussion, making it an ideal topic for developing critical thinking and responsible citizenship among students. The aim is to inspire students to think globally and act locally, recognizing their individual and collective responsibilities towards maintaining the planet's health and diversity.
Here are some potential topics that could be covered under this theme:
Global Warming and Climate Change: Understanding the science behind climate change, its global impact, and personal responsibility.
Sustainable Agriculture: Exploring practices that minimize environmental impact and ensure food security.
Diet and the Environment: Investigating how dietary choices affect the planet, including studies on veganism, vegetarianism, and meat consumption.
Biodiversity Conservation: Examining the importance of diverse species and ecosystems for planetary health.
Water Resources Management: Discussing the challenges of water conservation and sustainable water use.
Pollution and Waste Management: Analyzing the impact of plastic waste and industrial pollutants on the environment.
Renewable Energy Sources: Evaluating the shift towards sustainable energy options like solar, wind, and hydro power.
Urban Planning and Green Spaces: Considering how urban design can contribute to environmental sustainability.
Environmental Ethics: Delving into the moral considerations of human interactions with the environment.
Impact of Technology on Nature: Assessing both the positive and negative influences of technological advancements on the natural world.
These topics not only enrich students' understanding of environmental issues but also provide ample opportunities for language practice through debates, essays, reports, and presentations.
"Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret"
A compelling entry point for discussing environmental responsibility is the 2014 documentary, "Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret." Directed by Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn, "Cowspiracy" explores the impact of animal agriculture on the environment. The film argues that livestock farming is one of the primary contributors to global warming, water depletion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. It critically examines the policies of environmental organizations on this issue, making it an excellent resource for provoking thoughtful discussion among students about sustainability and ethical food choices.
Incorporating "Cowspiracy" into the Classroom
To enrich the learning experience, I recommend using a structured worksheet that guides students through three phases of engagement with the documentary: