Living Schoolyard Activity Guide

• This comprehensive activity guide contains over 100 activities that encourage the use of school grounds for place-based learning, artistic expression, imaginative play, and an appreciation for ecological stewardship.
  
• A table of contents outlines activities related to art, social and emotional well-being, schoolyard agriculture and food, place-based understanding, wildlife and habitat, watershed stewardship, energy and climate, thoughtful use of materials, and community engagement.
• There are multiple opportunities for hands-on learning and experiences in nature through these engaging activities.

Positives

• This resource contains a table of contents and index to quickly locate topics or related vocabulary.
• Each activity is succinct and well-organized, including appropriate age groups, directions, necessary materials, and contributions.
• It provides an opportunity for all children at school to have access to nature.
  

Additional Prerequisites

• Teachers should take time to read the introductory information, including "About this Guide" and "The Power and Potential of Green Schoolyards" for more comprehensive information on the topic before beginning.
• This resource is written by 122 organizations across the United States and additional background information about them is included.
• The Index starting on page 205 provides a quick way to find contributing organizations or activities listed by contributing organization, subject, grade level, topic, or activity type.
  

Differentiation

• Have older students read the introductory information on The Green Schoolyard Movement (on pages 7-9) as a reading comprehension activity, writing about or discussing the background and purpose of the movement.
• Consider having students submit stories about their outside adventures and celebrations using the directions and email address on page 21.
• Art teachers can refer to the background information and table of contents beginning on page 23 for activities related to drawing and painting or sculpture, textiles, and carpentry.  
• Language arts classes can use the creative writing activities, beginning on page 36.
• There are art, music, and dance activities to provide enriching outdoor activities in a fun and creative way.
• Give students time to further research some of the contributing organizations, using the map as a reference.