This unit is about the impact of growth (commercial and residential) on the environment and how everyone needs to be aware of the trade-offs. Specifically, this unit will examine how the use of impervious surfaces impacts the environment. The unit will also illustrate how knowledge of science informs our decisions and awareness as citizens. The lessons evolve from engaging the learner’s interest, becoming aware of the issue in their community and taking action in their community for the common good.Population density and community development has political and environmental implications. The development of cities, towns, suburbs and rural America share a common feature; a transportation system that relies on cars and trucks and the highways, roadways and parking lots that they demand. As towns and suburbs grow, the commercial and residential building “footprint” on the landscape will be harmful to the environment unless carefully planned. The issue related to “sprawl”, “population density” and the environment is the use of concrete, brick and asphalt; all impervious surfaces. The purpose of this lesson is to make learners aware of the environmental impact of impervious surfaces and empower them to become environmental stewards.

Focus Questions:
What is the relationship between community development and the environment?
How has development negatively impacted my community and what can be done about it?
 

Learner teams will investigate a microcosm of their community for the purpose to identifying and recommending changes in the community that represent alternatives to impervious surfaces.

Lesson One: prior to this lesson, obtain a recording of This Land Is Your Land, by Woody Guthrie and A Big Yellow Taxi, by  Jonie Mitchell.

This unit should be taught with learners having prior knowledge of the science vocabulary. If the unit is taught without this prior knowledge, the teacher will have to define the science vocabulary as needed.