Change is a natural function in all of Earth’s ecosystems, but science shows that the current rate of global climate change is largely due to human activity. This lesson is designed to raise an awareness and understanding of climate change through discussion and activities that focus on global warming, the greenhouse effect, the carbon cycle, and how all of these are related through human actions. An emphasis is put on climate changes being seen in the New England bioregion and on what we, as ordinary citizens, can do differently. We recommend that this lesson be followed by our Renewable Energy Lesson.

Renewable Energy Lesson
Focus on positive solutions to the most pressing environmental issue of our time! In this lesson, students consider strategies for conservation and visit stations around our campus dedicated to learning about different forms of renewable energy sources. They see firsthand how our nationally recognized Pathways to a Sustainable Future Program has been working to reduce Chewonki’s fossil-fuel use and carbon dioxide emissions with passive-solar building construction, solar electricity, solar water-heating systems, renewable liquid fuel manufacturing (biodiesel), and New England’s first renewable hydrogen fuel-cell backup power system. The lesson includes hands-on exploration and discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of using renewable energy options. We recommend that this lesson be preceded by our Global Climate Change Lesson.

Farm Study
Chewonki’s working farm has been in operation since 1969. A model of sustainable, small-scale agricultural practices, it includes a large organic garden, several livestock herds, and a woodlot. By working alongside the farmer, perhaps milking a cow, turning compost, or tending the garden, students familiarize themselves with soils, nutrient cycles, and healthy food production. They also trace the source of their own foods and consider the idea of sustainability as it applies to contemporary farming practices.

Human History and the Landscape
For those with a keen eye & a curious mind this land holds a story that you’re sure to find . . . Bricks, stone walls, old foundations, and the "Pine-Apple Forest" – in this lesson students practice “reading the landscape” by following a set of clues that brings them to these historical sites and more on the beautiful Chewonki Peninsula. Students use their observation and critical thinking skills to read the story of the land. The rove incorporates archeological sites, Chewonki Foundation historical photographs and archives, and local historical facts to explore the question: How did the landscape affect human history, and vice-versa?

Town Meeting
The Town Meeting offers students the chance to wrestle with current social and political issues and to formulate and express their own convincing conclusions. Students use role-playing techniques to represent interest groups as they consider important natural-resource questions and formulate their own management strategies. Drawing on the lessons learned during the week, the Town Meeting is a chance for students to apply their new knowledge and skills and to recognize their usefulness in settings beyond their immediate world. This lesson is often scheduled as a culminating experience for the entire school on the last morning of an extended program.

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Lessons in Ecology, Teambuilding or Outdoor Living Skills