The Development of a Native Prairie and Implementation of Curriculum Resources to Enhance Environmental Education at Marshall Middle School

Abstract

his project sought to encourage environmental education at Marshall Middle School in Janesville, WI through the development of native grassland on the school site and curriculum resources for staff and students to use. Creation of the site not only established a small piece of habitat, it also provided an outdoor classroom for MMS to utilize and impact student achievement. Research has proven that development of these types of projects make learning concrete and valuable for students involved. Staff and students began the project during the 2002-2003 school year. The researcher provided direction for the project through staff development and creation of an interdisciplinary unit for his students that led to the planting of the ¾ acre site. A curriculum guide, which was tied to state standards in all core areas and environmental education, was created by the researcher to provide staff with opportunities to utilize the site with their students.