Lesson Plan

Grades 3-5

Green Spaces

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40 minutes (Part 1); 1 hour (Part 2)

SUBJECTS: Math, Science, Social Studies

TOPICS: Carrying Capacity, Population Density, Urbanization

Resource Overview

Students graph how being outdoors affects their moods and then design an imaginary city that meets both the green space needs and daily living needs of the city’s residents.

Students will be able to:
  • Measure and graph how access to green spaces affects their feelings.
  • Explain why green space is important and how a growing population can impact the availability of green space.
  • Develop ways to establish more green space in an urban setting.
Aerial view of Irving, Texas shows green space among school, homes and roads.

Features of This Resource

  • Urban planning lesson for upper elementary grades
  • Lesson plan uses the concept of spatial significance
  • Students practice data literacy by collecting, graphing and analyzing data


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