Last month, sixth grade students at MMW heard from broadcast meteorologist Paul Douglas. They learned more about the topics in their earth and space science curriculum and made connections with Douglas’s book, A Kid’s Guide to Saving the Planet: It’s Not Hopeless and We’re Not Helpless, which they were reading in class. In addition to discussing various earth science and weather concepts, Douglas talked about the importance of curiosity, persistence and taking initiative to have a positive impact on the environment. 

“I first heard about Mr. Douglas’s book from a coworker last year. This summer I started a book club with other teachers to read the book and discuss ways we could incorporate it into our classes,” shared Laura Murtha, a science teacher at MMW and one of the main forces behind organizing the event. “The book is very easy to read, and I found that it might be a good resource for students. It has great pictures and a lot of different kids are featured within the book, as well, sharing how they are combating climate change and making a difference in the world.”

Douglas’s book has been a resource that has helped students understand a number of concepts while also presenting a positive and motivational view of how students can impact the environment for the better. During his presentation, Douglas also shared about future career opportunities for students interested in weather and climate. He talked about his own experience becoming involved in meteorology and his favorite aspects of the job, which included predicting new and unique weather patterns.

“The students really enjoyed learning about natural hazards and how human impact on the environment can affect some of the weather patterns and occurrences that we see in Minnesota,” said Murtha. “Finding ways that the ideas and curriculum can relate to their own lives is always more engaging for students. In one of our activities, we learned about the ‘ice out’ dates in Minnesota and made predictions about when ‘ice out’ would happen for Lake Minnetonka.” One student did guess the correct 2023 ice out date of April 19!

The students enjoyed learning more about their current unit, engaging in fun activities and learning how to apply their knowledge to their own lives. Murtha added, “I am hoping that the students take away some ideas from the book and the presentation about how they can make decisions and choices that can positively affect the environment.”