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ASSIGNMENT
if you have not already done so, watch the video HOME which is included in this module.
Comment on the film HOME and other video clips that are included in this module.
How would you envisage introducing these climate change facts to your pupils.Post your response (150 words minimum) as a reply to this post.
Please also comment on at least one other participant’s post
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful documentary that vividly illustrates the impact of human activities on our planet. It weaves together breathtaking aerial shots, compelling narratives, and scientific facts to convey urgent messages about climate change and environmental stewardship. Some of the key facts that stood out for me were life on Earth has existed for nearly 4 billion years with humans appearing only 200,000 years ago, rivers carry minerals to oceans making them salty, cyanobacteria are becoming so important. Plant life changed the atmosphere by breaking apart water molecules. I would envisage introducing these climate changing facts by using the video to engage their curiosity, let the students research the facts in further detail. I would contextualise the ideas further by undertaking experiments such as water cycle model or by using digital tools like the carbon footprint calculator. I also would like to have a whole class discussion on the areas of interest and provoke thinking with questions such as What surprised you the most?” “How can we make a positive impact?” “What changes can we implement?
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Hi Colm,
Welcome to the course, and thank you for your post. There is a lot to take in, but the HOME video really is an exquisite piece of work to showcase the breathtaking beauty of nature and how we have changed our world so rapidly in the context of this planet’s existence.
I think you have the right idea in using the video as a springboard for learners’ curiosity that can then lead to research into the topics covered, and the carbon footprint tool is a great way to see how changes we all make add up. While every minute of the video is worth watching, it can be helpful to show segments covering the topic you want to focus on rather than the full video.
It is also important to be mindful of eco-anxiety in young learners and focus on the positives underway. Here in Ireland, there is a lot happening, from solar panels to offshore wind farms, recycling food waste, the new (and somewhat controversial) bottle scheme, etc.
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I found the videos to be compelling. “Home” was powerful and evocative, and it could be shown in segments over a number of days. The TedTalk with Greta Thunberg was clear and informative. However, I would query the age-level appropriateness for some of these videos, especially when it comes to eco-anxiety. The Climate Aid 2020 video is stark and could be used as a Trigger within the Esero framework. However, I would assert that this video, along with the others, would be suitable for a 5th and 6th class, as discussion could be used to discern the content. I feel that the Greta Thunberg video is a good example of a Trigger within the Esero Framework, as it poses the questions and challenges relating to Climate Change. Within the Esero Framework, I would use group work and discussion to develop the ‘Wondering’ and ‘Exploring’ aspects – what questions and statements arise among the children after watching this video? In terms of Investigation, the videos shown in this module could initiate starter questions on practices which can reduce our carbon footprint, such as the use of solar energy, wind energy and recycling.
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Some of the video clips in this section on Climate Change are absolutely stunning. The Climate Aid 2020 video would bring a tear to the eye, it was very moving. The movie “Home” is absolutely spectacular. I would show this to senior classes over a number of days. The imagery and information were unreal. There were so many stand out points that could be discussed and worked on collaboratively within any class. Some of the statements towards the end of the movie were startling. E.g. the ice cap is 40% thinner than it was 40 years ago. There were so many points that struck a chord with me e.g. climate refugees, soaring temperatures etc but also the message of hope at the end where harmony between humanity and nature can become the norm. I think this is an important message that we as educators will need to pass on to our students.
The imagery in the movie was spectacular, I would bring the students outside in our local environment and ask them to look at the sky, nature etc and see the beauty outside their own front door then we could discuss ways to protect it.
Greta Thunberg’s Ted talk was emotive and powerful, I would certainly show it to the middle to older classes. They could try to create their own speech to save the planet.
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Hi Hannah…I agree with your point. It was a little overwhelming at times and I also feel people like Greta Thunberg can be incredibly frightening for children! My 8 year old was wondering why Just Stop Oil ‘protesters’ threw soup over Van Goughs painting..or why a man put a cable tie around his neck and tied himself to a football post at a Premier League match..
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I found the video Home to be extremely compelling. It effectively highlights how climate change is a global issue, intricately connected across countries, rather than being the responsibility of just one nation more than another. The film also powerfully illustrates the immense pressures humanity has placed on the planet, alongside the natural forces at play over time. I would consider using it to introduce climate change facts to my class, though I would ensure to emphasize some of the more positive aspects as well. The video is quite impactful and does a strong job of exposing the harsher realities of climate change. However, it also features breathtaking aerial imagery that beautifully showcases the Earth’s wonders. We can use this to inspire discussions about the positive actions we can take to preserve its beauty. Since the video presents a lot of important information, I would use it to introduce these facts to the students, followed by encouraging them to research the positive steps being taken in Ireland to contribute to the global fight against climate change. These include off shore windfarms, recycling and solar panels to name but a few.
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In a primary classroom,it is important to be mindful of eco-anxiety.This involves creating a supportive environment where children feel safe to express their concerns about environmental issues. Teachers can address these feelings by providing balanced information, focusing on positive actions and solutions, and fostering a sense of empowerment through practical activities.
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I agree Carmel re eco-anxiety. It is about finding a happy balance for the children as I see with my own nieces and nephews, when they hear about the impact of increased temperature they get very worried. I know when I was a child I would have been similar so how we approach the teaching of these topics is very important.
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I agree the concept of eco anxiety is something we need to be mindful of when teaching this topic. Some of the children in our classes may find issues discussed around climate change distressing. A way to counteract this is to discuss the positive ways we can affect change and how we have agency to enact change.
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I also agree it is so important that while we are educating our pupils on the dangers that our earth faces that we do not cause eco anxiety. The world is such a frightening place at the moment we do not need to make it even scarier for our young people. Putting the focus on how we can help is a great way to tackle the issue without causing unnecessary worry.
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Hi Carmel, I agree that it important to share the relevant and appropriate segments of the video and to focus more so on the positives of how we are already doing so much to combat climate change and to encourage children to use their own initiative to continue to combat climate change in their school, home and the community in a gentle and child friendly appropriate manner without evoking a sense of fear in them or causing eco-anxiety.
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I found the video home extremely interesting. It really makes a good point of showing us that the issue of climate change is all interlinked and is not only one countries issues or one countries issue more than another. It also makes a good point of showing the pressures that humanity have placed on the planet, alongside the natural pressures that have happened over time. I would use it to introduce climate change facts to my class but I would be mindful of focusing on some of the more positive parts. I did find the video quite hard hitting and effective at showing the more ugly side of climate change. I also found that the spectacular aerial imagery did show us how amazing the earth can be and we can use this to draw on what positive changes we can make to keep it spectacular. This video does tell us facts so I would use the video to introduce the facts to the children and then I would ask the to research what positive changes we are making in Ireland to join in in the fight against climate change.
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Hi Carmel, I agree eco- anxiety is very much present in lots of children. Children can become very overwhelmed with the topic and focus on the problems that the earth are facing and even more because it feels like nothing changes quickly. Its a good idea to look at what the positives are and what progress each and everyone can make.
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I agree that eco-anxiety is a very real issue for a lot of children. Therefore, it is really important that they be well prepared in terms of giving them tools such as the Circle of Control, which I mentioned I my post. Focusing on the positives and identifying small changes that can be made within the child’s immediate environment will also help.
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Hi Ciara and Ann,
You both make excellent points. A story that may help learners is about the ozone layer. While it was a smaller scale problem than the climate change issue we currently face, I think it important to highlight how we have tackled global environmental challenges before and overcome them by working together globally. It was a major concern not so long ago, and today, it is on track for recovery.
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I agree Fionnuala, we are bombarded by social media, news and also there is a lot of misinformation and climate change denial. It is important to raise awareness and educate without causing anxiety and by focusing on positive changes that can make a difference. The circle of control is a great tool to use.
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Hey Aine,
You make a great point of how climate change is interlinked. Obviously some countries are more guilty than others depending on their size, infrastructure and pollution rates, but at the end of the day we are on one planet together so we must mind it together. I also liked how you would concentrate on the positive aspects of ‘Home’ as it is a hard hitting documentary (I suppose it has to be otherwise the message won’t be as effective). You recommend that the children concentrate on the facts and I agree that this would be a good way to motivate them to think up ideas to prevent climate change from an irish perspective.
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HOME showcases stunning aerial footage of the Earth, highlighting the beauty if our planet and the profound impacts of climate change. It emphasises the urgency of addressing environmental issues and protecting our natural resources.
I would use this with my class as I find the video clips would be perfect to captivate their interest.
I would use images and infographics to explain complex concepts visually.
I would use interactive activities to capture their intereest. For exampl,e I would use simple experiements to demonstrate effects like the greenshouse effect.
I would integrate role play for the pupils. I would have the students act out scenarios e.g being a polar bear in a melting habitat to understand the impacts on wildlife.
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Eleanor I agree with the power of a video clip at catching the attention of the children and “Home” would definitely do that. I love your idea of incorporating role play and was just thinking something like conscience alley would also work here. So many ways to engage the children alongside such a powerful video.
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The video called Home by Yann Arthus-Bertran is a very powerful and evidence based documentary on the impact of human activity on this planet. It has one important message we need to take care of the earth and help in the fight against climate change. We must listen to the urgent warnings about climate change for future generations. I would also remind them that every person can help make a difference. For example Greta Thunberg. I feel we all witnessed this impact on wildlife and nature during the covid lockdown when humans were unable to travel, we saw across the world that wildlife returned to polluted areas. For example Dolphins swam in Hudson river. Smog disappeared from cities.
The video starts with the history of the world and beautiful images that captivate the audience. It provides lots of scientific facts from a gentle voiced narrator. It such as the earth has existed for 4 billion years while humans only appeared 200,000 years ago. I would use this video as a stimulus for teaching this topic to the children. Then I would place the children in groups to discuss the video and write down open ended questions.
I would get the children to create posters on greenhouse gases with some of their open ended questions on them. The children would then complete a kahoot quiz on greenhouse gases and ways we can help to assess their learning.. It is important to give children an opportunity to voice their opinions and I would use the TED talk which was delivered by Greta Thunberg to show the children that they have a role to play in trying to resolve global warming. The carbon footprint calculator seems like a fantastic resource to make the children truly aware of the impact they are having on the climate.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s documentary film “HOME” highlights critical issues related to the environment and climate change. The film emphasises how all living beings on Earth are interconnected and how human activities have disrupted these connections. It highlights the impact of deforestation, overfishing, and pollution on ecosystems. I would highlight this resourse oin the classroom by creating a simple food web with the children, showing how plants, herbivores, and carnivores depend on each other. Use pictures and string to connect different animals and plants, demonstrating the concept of interconnectedness.
“HOME” also highlights the issue of water scarcity, explaining how overuse and pollution of water sources lead to shortages. It shows the importance of conserving water and protecting our freshwater resources. I would introduce this to pupils by organising a water conservation game where children have to complete tasks (like brushing teeth or watering plants) using a limited amount of water. This can help them understand the value of water and the importance of using it wisely. -
Hi Marian
I like your approach here. You yourself have watched Home and gained valuable information and insights into the problems we face on Earth with Biodiversity collapse and water shortages and have used that information to design practical activities to introduce the concepts to your pupils in an accessible way. I particularly like your idea for a water saving game. I’m sure the children will enjoy completing the tasks and challenging themselves but will also learn a lot from the experience.
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I think the idea of a water conservation game is a great idea to actually draw the children’s attention to how much water they’re using and how tasks can be completed using less. I can remember myself once there was a problem with the water at my house so the taps were dry and we had to use bottled water for a couple of days and I couldn’t get over how much water we were actually using when you were watching the bottles empty it seemed to highlight it a lot more that just using a tap all of the time.
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“Home” is a visually arresting documentary showcasing Earth’s beauty and environmental peril. The film highlights striking facts: half of the world’s forests have vanished, 20% of the polar ice cap has melted in the last 20 years and species extinction rates are accelerating. It shows how 1 billion people suffer from hunger while another billion are overfed, reflecting severe resource management. Utilizing breath taking aerial shots, “Home” emphasizes humanity’s interconnectedness with nature and the urgent need to adapt sustainable practices to preserve our planet for future generations.
Greta Thunberg’s TED talk is powerful and direct, compellingly urging climate action. Her straightforward delivery and personal anecdotes emphasising the urgency of the crisis, effectively inspiring global awareness.
To engage children in my class I would use short clips of ‘Home’ to illustrate Earth’s beauty and environmental issues. I would shop a few minutes of Greta Thunberg’s Ted Talk also, it would be inspiring for children to hear the voice of a child speaking on this topic. I would follow this with discussion and I would incorporate interactive activities like drawing, creating eco-friendly projects and brainstorming ways to help the planet. I would aim to make the message relatable to inspire sustainable habits.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning and thought-provoking documentary that highlights the delicate balance of life on Earth and the impact of human activities on the planet. Through breathtaking aerial footage from over 50 countries, the film showcases the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the urgency of addressing environmental issues. The narrative is both a celebration of Earth’s beauty and a call to action, reminding viewers that the future of our planet depends on the choices we make today. It’s a powerful and compelling work that encourages reflection on our responsibility towards the environment.
In my classroom I would envisage using using simple language, relatable examples, and engaging activities to teach climate facts to primary aged children. I would start with the basics, like explaining that Earth is our home, and it needs care just like a garden or a pet. I would use stories such as “Go Green” by Paul A Reynolds . I would facilitate Hands-on activities, like planting or recycling crafts. This can help them understand how their actions make a difference. I would Keep the message positive and focus on how they can help protect the planet.
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The documentary “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand showcases the detrimental effects human activity has on the Earth, particularly our climate and natural resources. It draws attention to how pollution, overfishing, and deforestation have negative impacts on ecosystems.
“HOME” also addresses the issue of water scarcity, illustrating how pollution and excessive use of water resources cause shortages. It demonstrates how crucial it is to preserve our freshwater and practice water conservation. In the classroom, I would invite the children to engage in a STEM activity, in which groups build their own water saving device.As ‘HOME’ is quite long, I might break the movie into sections and show the children clips at various stages over the year, relevant to whatever topic we are focusing on. However, the Greta Thunberg TED Talk is certainly a worthwhile watch, for children from 2nd class upwards, in my opinion. I believe children would gain more from watching a child explain these complex ideas in her own words.
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Hi Annie,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Home documentary. I agree that you could show specific sections to the class to allow for more discussion and follow up activities. I like how you plan to include a STEM activity where the pupils can design a water saving device in groups.
I hope you enjoy the course.
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The documentary “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand showcases the detrimental effects human activity has on the Earth, particularly our climate and natural resources. It draws attention to how pollution, overfishing, and deforestation have negative impacts on ecosystems.
“HOME” also addresses the issue of water scarcity, illustrating how pollution and excessive use of water resources cause shortages. It demonstrates how crucial it is to preserve our freshwater and practice water conservation. In the classroom, I would invite the children to engage in a STEM activity, in which groups build their own water saving device.As ‘HOME’ is quite long, I might break the movie into sections and show the children clips at various stages over the year, relevant to whatever topic we are focusing on. However, the Greta Thunberg TED Talk is certainly a worthwhile watch, for children from 2nd class upwards, in my opinion. I believe children would gain more from watching a child explain these complex ideas in her own words.
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I watched the video Home. It is an excellent documentary which really clearly tells us how human life is impacting negatively on the ecological balance of the planet. The aerial shots are amazing and it is an excellent resource for older classes and leads to great scope for integration with history, geography, english, science, drama, art etc It is a great stimulus to start off discussion on how humans are destroying the earth and if we don’t act soon the consequences will be irreversable. However towards the end of the documentary it is good that children can see the countries and people who have made a positive impact on the environment.The TED talk by Greta Thunberg will be excellent as children will see what role they have to play and the fact that a young person is delivering it , they will be able to identify with it better. I especially like the integration of drama and consience alley as I feel children will be so interested if they take on the role of a penguin or a polar bear or an arctic fox loosing their homes. The carbon footprint calculaor is also a excellent resource to use.
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The facts I discovered in the HOME video were how burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas drives climate change, you can use simple and interactive activities. One idea is to create a visual demonstration using jars or bottles filled with water to represent Earth’s atmosphere. Then, add cotton balls soaked in different coloured water to represent greenhouse gases emitted from burning fossil fuels. As more “greenhouse gases” are added, explain how they trap heat, causing the Earth to warm up. You can also organize a role-playing game where children act as different sources of energy (renewable vs. fossil fuels) and see how each choice affects a model Earth’s temperature. Encourage discussions about the impact of burning fossil fuels on the environment and brainstorm eco-friendly alternatives. By making the concept hands-on and engaging, children can grasp the link between fossil fuels and climate change in a fun and accessible way.
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I really liked this experiment using the cotton balls to demonstrate climate change. I feel that this experiment would be suitable for all ages. I also like the fact that is could be very simply recreated at home as the materials are so easily found,
This experiment is just a perfect way to consolidate the effects of climate change in a very effecttive way.
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I really like Enda’s idea of using the cotton balls soaked in different colours to represent the different greenhouse gases to explain how the Earth is warming up as this would be a very visual aid to help the children see how it is happening. I also like the idea of the role play where children can explore the advantages and disadvantages of the different energy sources.
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Totally agree Enda and some excellent points. I love the idea of a role-playing game where children act as different sources of energy (renewable vs. fossil fuels) and see how each choice affects a model Earth’s temperature. This would certaintly encourage some very importnant discussions. Thanks for the idea.
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After watching the video Home I learned many facts including how life on earth has excisted for nearly 4 billion years with humans appearing only 200,000 years ago. Introducing climate change facts to students requires a blend of clear information, engaging activities, and relatable examples. I would start with an introductory discussion that explains the basic concepts of climate change and its human causes, using simple language and visual aids such as charts and images to illustrate key points. Visual aids could include graphs showing temperature changes over the last 200 years, highlighting the correlation with increased greenhouse gas emissions. Short, engaging videos like the Paxi video on greenhouse gases can visually demonstrate the science behind climate change. Hands-on activities could include using an interactive climate model tool to show the impact of different human activities on future temperatures and conducting simple classroom experiments, such as using jars, thermometers, and heat lamps, to demonstrate the greenhouse effect. Discussing local climate changes and relating them to broader climate trends, as well as sharing personal stories of how climate change affects people globally, can make the issue more relatable. Facilitating classroom discussions on how students can help combat climate change through everyday actions like reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices encourages active participation and reflection.
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The video titled ‘HOME’ was a very powerful and compelling video which clearly shows the effects human are having on the planet. This video could be used as a stimulus to spark children’s interests in the topic. I would play the video for the children and then I would get them to complete a group activity where I present an open ended question for them to discuss. At the end of the lesson in order to assess the children’s learning I would use a Kahoot quiz. It is important to give children an opportunity to voice their opinions and I would use the TED talk which was delivered by Greta Thunberg to show the children that they have a role to play in trying to resolve global warming. The carbon footprint calculator seems like a fantastic resource to make the children truly aware of the impact they are having on the climate.
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Hi Emma, I too look foreward to using the carbon footprint calculator with my class. While engaging with the questions on the calculator I can see many opportunities to talk about good and bad choices, and also choices over which our students have some control (like whether to take a car or bus to school, or maybe to walk instead). It is a great tool to raise awareness of the impact each of us has on our climate and on our planet.
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Hi Emma, I also really liked the carbon footprint calculator. This is a great resource for showing children how each individual can impact climate change on earth, for good or for bad. It is one thing to show and analyse the damage the human race is doing – it is even better when we can examine our own individual contribution.
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The HOME video is truly stunning. It is a captivating video showing the progression of life through time. It is beautifully thought provoking and will be very useful in class. I think with students in a junior school it could be easily broken up into manageable segments:- what our planet was like in the very beginning, what it was like as the first humans lived on earth, the way in which the world changed with the industrial revolution, what the world is like now and what it could be like on in to the future, if we take good care of our planet. Along with ongoing discussion I think my students would very much enjoy making a pictorial timeline showing images from the video.
Regarding the other videos: I doubt I will show the Climate Aid 2020 video in my junior class. I think the images are just too shocking for younger students, though I think the short Climate Action 2019 video and the TED talk from Greta Thunberg are very suitable and they offer hope to our students. It is very encouraging to listen to Greta Thunberg and for our students to realize that children DO have a voice, their individual actions can and will make a difference to the future of our planet.-
Hi Jane. I do think that some of the videos on climate change could be distressing for younger classes so the differentiation you mentioned there would be brilliant for junior classes. I entirely agree that focusing on hope and action rather than the damage that has already been done to the planet would be important.
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Hi Jane,
I agree that some of the video clips might be distressing for some of the younger pupils. Maybe for some older also. I think that a lot of pupils in primary schools now are very well informed but some would be very upset by some of the images. We would need to consider all of this while at the same time exploring the material in an age-appropriate manner.
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The film “HOME” and related video clips in Module 3 offer a compelling visual representation of the climate change crisis. To introduce these facts to my class next year at school, I would show “HOME” and facilitate a class discussion to explore its impact and the urgency for action. We would then analyze additional clips, such as Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk, to delve deeper into youth activism. Students would research and present on various climate change topics, and we would incorporate hands-on activities like measuring carbon footprints. By combining video resources, discussions, and practical tasks, my class would develop a comprehensive understanding of climate change and their role in addressing it. This approach would foster critical thinking and empower students to make a positive difference in the world. It would also be important to emphasise the change that is possible rather than focusing too much on the negative when dealing with climate change in order to ensure there isn’t a high level of anxiety around it.
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Hi Padraic. Yes I agree that these videos are a perfect way to show the children exactly what the climate change crisis looks like. I think the TED Talk is an excellent way to engage the children as it is a youth activist which they should engage well with. The combination of the different elements to the lesson will engage the children well and I intend on doing the same in my classroom.
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This module contained some excellent videos that can be used across many class levels. The video Home is a very informative, effective video which highlights many issues relating to Climate Change. The images and clips in Home are captivating and really make the viewer reflect on the vastness of our world. I would break the video up into four or five sections and use the videos as a stimulus for a range of lessons on Climate Change. The first video shown to us, was very moving. I would use this video with an older class – I felt it really showed the devastating effects of climate change and would inspire us all to do better. I also think that the TED Talk video from Greta Thunberg is very inspiring. It would be very beneficial for our students to realise that children have a say and have a voice and it is important to use our voices to instil change.
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Hi Grainne, I agree, “Home” is powerful and ideal for discussions on climate change across different grade levels. Breaking it into sections for focused lessons is a great strategy, and I also find Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk inspiring for empowering students to advocate for change. These resources will definitely enrich our curriculum.
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<p style=”text-align: left;”>The film Home evokes many feelings in me. Wonder, awe, curiosity and a feeling of how deeply connected us humans and this planet that we call home are. It is easy for us to carry on our lives without considering how our way of living is affecting others. Greta makes such valid points, how can we carry on as if existential problems are not our concern. In order to present these brilliant pieces of video to children, I think it is crucial that we do not cause worry and despair. That we create a positive approach and relate it to a problem that can and should be tackled. Overall great pieces of cinematography and worthy of being shared.</p>
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The film, Home, was a stunning piece of cinema. Imagine seeing it on the big screen! I was so struck by all of the images, the variety of them, the different settings, contexts, countries.
I think I would introduce it to my class slowly and in sections. I think there is so much information and so much to consider that they might be overwhelmed if too much of it was presented all at once.
The film very successfully illustrates the rapid rate of growth throughout the world in the last 30-40 years. The number of skyscrapers in Shanghai for example is staggering at 3,000 in 20 years. Some of the pupils might be familiar with Dubai if family members have gone there for work over the past 7-8 years. The difference in 20 years there is hard to believe. Footage of then and now would be so interesting for pupils to see. Climate justice is a key area to be explored. I feel it is essential for pupils here to realise the effects of our choices on people in countries they may never even have heard of, to understand the impact of 20% of the world’s population consuming 80% of the resources.
I do feel it is so important for pupils to have hope. It would be easy to fall into despair for a lot of that film. I was glad there was reference to positive changes and interventions in various places around the world like Lesotho and Gabon. Our pupils have to have hope, they have to feel like there is a meaningful contribution they can make.
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Hi Valerie,
Welcome to the course, and thank you for your reflective post.
I couldn’t agree more with you on the Home film. It was made for the big screen! I also see that it could easily be too much or overwhelming unless shown in short clips.
It is so important that we focus on the positive, and as you said, there are positive changes and interventions in place. Learners may have already noticed some changes themselves in their locality, such as the bottle return scheme, solar panels on buildings, electric cars, better public transport, more cycle lanes, etc. It can also lead to a school project on energy conservation.
The SEAI provide some great free workshops on this-see this link for more information:Student Workshops | Community Energy | SEAI
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The film “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful presentation of the earth and the tragic impact humans have had on it. It has visually stunning aerial shots that capture even the most remote corners of our planet. The documentary is a masterpiece, with its use of music and narration and every scene is thoughtfully crafted to portray the fragility of Earth.
Throughout the film, I couldn’t help feel lots of different emotions from sad to anger to amazment at its beauty. Planet Earth, our provider, has given us everything we need to survive, yet we have repaid it with exploitation and neglect. I would like to use snippets of this in the classroom and it should allow the children and I to reflect deeply on our own actions and the collective behaviour of us all either in our family or community. We could look to change habits in the school and begin to make a difference.
I went back through the module slides another time after watching this film and I took the “ How big is your environmental footprint?” questionnaire. I feel this could be a lovely resource to add to children’s research in the classroom on climate change. The Paris agreement synopsis also is a child friendly explanation of the climate action plan. The Climate Aid Video 2020 would be a great stimulus to start the discussion on Climate Change. I found the Greta Thunberg TED talk to be powerful and impactful and I think that he children in senior classes may relate to that given she is of that age group.
A key learning from the Home movie was “We are made of the Earth, and the Earth is made of us.”
I do think and its mentioned in an earlier post that eco-anxiety needs to be understood also and a lot of children are deeply effected by this topic. We should approach it from positive angle and look at what we/they can change or do.
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The film ‘Home’ was one of the most spectacular films I’ve ever seen. Even my 10 year old daughter watched it with me and was captivated by it! The more I watched of the film the more depressed I was becoming watching the destruction we have caused the planet. To see places like Dubai, which according to the video doesn’t use solar panels, is just astounding. How can this be? Some of the various statistics provided throughout the film really put into perspective how industrialised the world has become and the inequality that exists.
When the film started first I thought this would be too advanced for my class to understand but once the real scientific stuff finished it became a resource that could be easily used on the interactive whiteboard. It’s quite long so would be shown in instalments perhaps but it would really open the pupils eyes to the different cultures and ways of living in the world. It hopefully would make them appreciate their own lives and all the resources that are readily available to us such as drinking water. As another participant, Ciara pointed out, it would be a good idea to use the Greta Thunberg content to introduce the topic as the some of the class would be aware of her. It’s definitely a resource that I will be using in class next year to highlight climate change. I’m actually looking forward to seeing it again! -
Home by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a fantastic documentary that highlights the diversity and beauty of our world while also considering the important environmental issues we are facing. It shows us how humans and their activities are impacting the environment. It presents evidence of climate changes such as rising sea levels, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and melting glaciers. It also focuses on the loss of biodiversity and the unsustainable use of natural resources like water, fossil fuels and minerals. It promotes the use of renewable energy sources and sustainable practices.
I would introduce these climate change facts to the children in a number of different ways. I would show them some short clips from the documentary. I would carry out hands on activities such as conducting experiments to demonstrate climate change effects. I would find some interactive stories about how climate change affects children in different parts of the world. I would ask pupils to create posters and drawings to show effects of climate change and maybe carry out a class project where children have to come up with ideas to reduce their own carbon footprint. I would also find some games and quizzes online that children could play. -
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he film “HOME” and the video clips in Module 3 offer a compelling visual overview of the climate change crisis. To introduce these concepts to my 4th class students next year, I would begin by showing the film “HOME” to provide a vivid and urgent portrayal of the environmental issues we face.
After watching the film, we would have a class discussion to reflect on its message and discuss the importance of taking action. To further deepen their understanding, I would show additional clips such as Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk, which highlights the power of youth activism in the fight against climate change.
Students would then work on research projects related to climate change, presenting their findings to the class. This peer-learning approach will help them understand various aspects of the issue. To make the lessons more engaging, we would include hands-on activities like calculating and discussing carbon footprints, encouraging students to think about their impact on the environment.
Using a mix of multimedia resources, interactive discussions, and practical activities, my 4th class students will develop a well-rounded understanding of climate change and their role in addressing it. This method not only promotes critical thinking but also empowers students to take meaningful action. Additionally, I would leverage resources from the SEAI website to enhance our lessons and provide comprehensive information. If you haven’t done so, watching the film “HOME” included in this module is highly recommended for a striking introduction to the climate crisis.
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I found the Climate change 2020 video very impactful. I was so affected by it as it made me question my own carbon footprint and more aware of the climate crisis. It is emotional and heartbreakingly sad. The music and visuals are so poignant. The visuals depicting pollution, destruction, pain and suffering of human and animal life on such a global scale alongside images of money is so impactful. The final line from Greta Thunberg saying ‘We have run out of excuses, and we are running out of time’ spoken alongside the sound of a ticking clock and followed by the image of a globe burning is really moving. Greta Thunberg’s Ted talk is very compelling and made me really question my own actions, responsibilities and personal accountability in relation to the climate crisis.
I feel that showing short clips from these videos would prove effective in the classroom. They would act as a lesson opener to engage children, to introduce the topic and to generate class discussions. I would use these videos to help children gain ideas and language for to make their own video presentations on the climate change challenge. ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is breath-taking and moving. The images were so beautiful and reminded me of the incredible world we live in and our duty to protect it. It was so informative and very sad viewing such destruction and changes that have already taken place.
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The film ‘Home’ was an amazing watch and shows the beauty of the world while also showing the damage that is being caused to the environment by humans and the effects of climate change. This film is excellent but may be too long for my children to watch in school. I enjoyed the other shorter clips throughout this module and I see how the children would engage with these within the classroom to enable them to better understand the concept that is being taught to them. One video in particular that I loved was the TED talk about school strike for climate and it really resonated with me because this was coming from a child. I think that the children in school would enjoy this video and listen attentively for the same reasons, that it is coming from a child. The children could discuss or debate whether they agree with her statements and why or why not. This will engage the children in conversation around climate change.
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This film was fantastic and really showed the effects that climate change has on the earth. The aerial shots are beautifully taken and the film has been put together so well. I think that this video would be excellent to show to an older class as they would really appreciate the elements of this film and it would be a great starting point for the discussion. The children can work collaboratively following on from watching the film to discuss their thoughts and opinions. The children can discuss if they are happy with this and come up with suggestions of what they can do to reduce the impact that we are having on the climate.
In this module, I enjoyed taking the questionnaire to check my carbon footprint and I was amazed by the results. This is something that the children could do in the classroom and could implement technology into the lesson. -
“Home” is a stunning documentary by Yann Arthus-Bertrand that shows the beauty of our planet from the sky. It explores how human activities impact Earth, particularly focusing on climate change. Through beautiful aerial footage, the film highlights the urgent need to protect our environment.
To introduce “Home” to pupils, I would start by explaining that the film shows amazing views of different places around the world and talks about how we are all connected to nature. I would say that it helps us understand why it’s important to take care of our planet.
After watching parts of the documentary, we could discuss what we saw and felt. I would ask questions like, “What did you find most beautiful?” and “What surprised you about how humans affect the environment?”
For activities, we could:
Create Posters: Pupils could make posters showing ways to protect the environment, inspired by scenes from the documentary.
Research Projects: Small groups could research different topics mentioned in the film, like deforestation or renewable energy, and present their findings.
Local Action Plan: As a class, we could develop a simple plan to reduce our carbon footprint, like starting a recycling program or planting trees.
These activities would help pupils understand climate change and feel empowered to make a difference.-
I completely agree with your approach to introducing “Home” to students. Your idea of combining stunning visuals with reflective discussions and hands-on activities is fantastic. The activities, like creating posters, conducting research projects, and developing a local action plan, are particularly effective in helping students understand the impact of climate change and feel empowered to take action.
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Eric, I really liked your idea for a local action plan. Sometimes, it feels as though climate change is out of our depth and what we do as one single person or small community wont matter. I think something like this local action plan would show the children that there is actually lots you can do as an individual or a small community to combat climate change. Maybe we could watch some videos of communities who have made a difference too.
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful, influential documentary. The documentary highlighted the absolute beauty of planet Earth. We saw some of the amazing wonders of nature. I felt pride in our planet while I watched this part of the documentary. However, we also saw the contrast to this natural beauty. We saw how large, over-populated cities, intensive farming methods, and other human made problems have caused huge harm to the planet. There was a fact in the documentary that shocked me: ‘in the last 50 years, the world has more radically changed than all other generations.’ This shocked me. I think this documentary toiled with my emotions throughout. If I were to watch this film with my class, afterwards, I would discuss the emotions that were felt in the classroom whilst watching this film., integrating with SPHE. I also think that watching this film within the classroom would help promote the Green Schools initiative within schools. Children would want to do more to protect their planet for future generations after watching this documentary. I would tend to show this documentary before we even start to learn about global warming issues, I feel this documentary could serve as a “why” for many children in relation to leaning about what is happening in this day and age and what is best for our planet.
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a wonderful, thought-provoking documentary that illustrates the impact of human activities on our planet. It gives us an insight into the absolute beauty of Earth and how we as humans have enormous influence on its future as well as its present state. The breathtaking shots of Earth together with such interesting facts and information are well presented but this could certainly be a difficult watch for young children. I would integrate this lesson with an SPHE lesson on the circle of control where children learn to identify things we can and cannot control in terms of climate change. I would hope this would help deal with eco-anxiety which some children could face.
Following on from this, I would like to show “Home” in segments, pausing and having group discussions to record facts and information, with a full class oral activity to conclude. There are endless opportunities for lessons to consolidate learning and provoke thinking in this module eg the carbon footprint calculator and other videos such as Greta Thunberg. Hopefully this will translate into improving everyday actions like reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices in all of our schools.-
Hi Ann, I completely agree with you, “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is indeed a powerful documentary that showcases both the beauty of our planet and the significant impact human activities have on it. Breaking the film into segments for group discussions is something I also intend to do with my students. This will allow students to process and reflect on the information in manageable chunks, fostering deeper understanding and engagement. It is true that incorporating the carbon footprint calculator is a fantastic way to make the abstract concept of climate impact tangible and personal for students. It can help them see the direct link between their daily actions and the environment, reinforcing the idea of individual responsibility. Greta Thunberg’s speeches are incredibly inspiring and can serve as a real-world example of how young people can influence change. Her message can empower students to feel that their voices and actions matter, combating feelings of eco-anxiety by focusing on positive actions they can take.
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‘Home’ is an amazing documentary that really highlights not only the beauty of the world around us but also the impact that that has on it.
I would probable start by having a class discussion around climate change and the causes and affects it has on our world. I would then have the class draw pictures illustrating their idea of what climate change looks like. We would then watch the documentary and stop at important parts throughout to discuss what exactly is happening.
Once the documentary is finished, pupils will have the opportunity in groups to discuss what they took from the documentary and how they interpreted it. Pupils will create a PowerPoint presentation based on the documentary of what the causes and affects are and also what they can do to combat it. I will also encourage all pupils to research any youth activists to take inspiration from.
We will mould the presentations into one and present it at the next assembly which will encourage others to do their part.
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It would be very interesting to see the children’s interpretation of climate change prior to showing them the video. Children might be more aware of climate change and the effects than we think. I also like the way you mentioned how children should research other young activists to find more information and take inspiration. Children relate more to other’s of a similar age and could in fact encourage further work in the area.
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful documentary that vividly illustrates the impact of human activities on our planet. It weaves together breathtaking aerial shots, compelling narratives, and scientific facts to convey urgent messages about climate change and caring for the environment. Some of the key facts that stood out for me were that life on Earth has existed for nearly 4 billion years, with humans appearing only 200,000 years ago; rivers carry minerals to oceans, making them salty; and cyanobacteria are becoming increasingly important and that plant life changed the atmosphere by breaking apart water molecules.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would use a multi-faceted approach that blends visual engagement, interactive activities, and critical discussions:
1. Engage with Visuals and Narratives: I would start by showing the snippets of the documentary “HOME” to capture the students’ attention and interest. The stunning visuals and compelling narration provide a comprehensive overview of the environmental issues we face.
2. Deep Dive into Key Facts: After watching the video, I would have the students work in groups to research some of the key facts presented, such as the history of life on Earth, the role of rivers in ocean salinity, and the significance of cyanobacteria. This research activity encourages students to explore and understand the underlying science and also take ownership of their learning around this topic.
3. Interactive Experiments: To contextualize the ideas further, we could conduct experiments such as creating a water cycle model in a Ziploc bag to illustrate the movement of water through the environment. Additionally, using digital tools like the carbon footprint calculator would help students understand their personal impact on the planet.
4. Class Discussions and Critical Thinking: I would facilitate a class discussion by asking open-ended questions like, “What surprised you the most?” “How can we make a positive impact?” and “What changes can we implement?” This discussion would help students process the information and think critically about their role in slowing the effects of climate change.
5. Local and Global Perspectives: Discussing local climate change issues and relating them to broader climate trends can make the issue more relatable for my students. Sharing stories of how climate change affects people globally, such as those presented in the documentary and in Greta Thunberg’s TED talk, can inspire students to think about the global impact of their actions.
6. Hands-On Activities: Hands-on activities could include using an interactive climate model tool to show the impact of different human activities on future temperatures. We could also conduct simple classroom experiments, such as using jars, thermometers, and heat lamps, to demonstrate the greenhouse effect.
7. Assessment and Reflection: To assess the students’ understanding, I would use a Kahoot quiz at the end of the lesson. This fun, interactive tool allows me to gauge their learning and it is fun and engaging for my students alleviating the anxiety some students may feel around traditional style assessment activities.
8. Student-Led Initiatives: I would encourage my students to take part in projects that reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable practices not just in our classroom but as a school-wide initiative or local community project.
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I watched the video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus – Bertand and I found the visuals and music to be extraordinary. The images at the beginning really drew me in to the idyllic Earth in which we all live. As the movie progresses we see the effect of human survival and the video becomes less pleasant to watch. I enjoyed that at the end of the video hope was offered through encouraging the use of natural resources and using renewable energy. It is time to enter a sustainable relationship with nature.
Although I found the video interesting the children that I teach are very young and I feel, even though the video is beautifully and poetically crafted the children would lose interest and struggle to understand the meaning very quickly. I would also show concern for some of the distressing images and would prefer to tailor my own resources to develop greater understanding.-
I think you have made a very valid point Michelle – this video is certainly pitched at the senior primary classes or even more so suited to secondary school age pupils. I would also keep in mind eco-anxiety as it is such a powerfully portrayed video. The photos are breathtaking so maybe discussion points around them would be more suited to the younger classes. Again you as teacher are best placed to decide which photos are more suitable to show your own class.
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I agree Michelle I don’t think the video Home is age-appropriate for primary school children. However, I do feel that there is some vital and important information contained in the video that could be adapted and used in the classroom around class discussions on climate change. As you mentioned, I think it would be more effective to provide the children with manageable ways and ideas in which they can take on in their lives, and pass on to their families at home.
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I also feel that while this is and excellent and highly emotive video, I believe it is better suited to the higher classes in primary school and best suited to second level pupils.
I would dip in and out of it with my own class but only as an introduction to or back up to the points of the lesson we doing.
There are some stunning images in this video and are certainly worth showing so as to acknowledge the true beauty of our planet an instill a passion to protect it as much as possible
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I agree with you Aisling in that the ‘Home’ film is more suited to second level students. The images are amazing and could provide a framework with which to work with 5th and 6th class. I would show sections of the film over a two week period and there are endless possibilities for integration with history and even artwork.
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The video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus Bertrand is so powerful and moving. Not only is the the message conveyed extremely well but the use of vivid imagery coneys the climate crisis and the effects humans are having on our planet. I think this video would work best shown in snippets to a 5th or 6th class and perhaps they could practise the skill of note taking to record the most important, scientific facts. Alternatively, the class could be divided into small groups and each group could watch certain sections of the video whilst taking notes and relating the important messages back to the whole class.
Some facts that caught my attention are that 4 billion years ago Earth came into existence but humans appeared only 200,000 years ago. It also then explicitly conveyed how humans have disrupted the balance which is essential to life. It really gives the scientific facts so well and you almost feel a shock factor which leads to feeling – we need to make a change and now is the time!!
I loved the phrase that Earth is a miracle and life remains a mystery. It relayed the profound effects that humans have on the environment – deforestation, pollution, exploitation of natural resources etc. It also relates to the theme to biodiversity and how we are all interconnected as the planet is our fragile ecosystem. I think after showing the children this video they could draw up a positive plan on how we could change/what actions we could take personally and globally? To conclude I think it might be a good idea to show the children the video 2019 Climate Action Plan – to see if they had thought of all/any of the ideas from it. -
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The film Home, along with the other video clips in this module, powerfully highlight the urgent need to address climate change. Home visually demonstrates how beautiful and fragile our planet is, emphasizing how human activities are threatening ecosystems and biodiversity. The Climate Aid 2020 video and Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk further emphasize the significance of immediate action and the role of young people in driving change.
To introduce these climate change facts to my 5th class students, I would start with a discussion on what climate change is and why it matters, using clips from Home to illustrate the impact visually. Next, we would explore the Paris Agreement and Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, breaking down key points in a way that’s easy for them to understand. Activities like calculating our carbon footprints and comparing them to other countries will help make the information relatable. Additionally, we’d watch Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk to inspire and show them that young voices can make a difference. Including hands-on projects, like creating posters or presentations about what they’ve learned, will help reinforce the importance of taking action to protect our planet.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand really is an inspiring documentary that beautifully captures the magic of our planet but also delivers the very important message about the need for a change in the way we look at and treat our environment. I really felt that “Home” would inspire the children to reflect on the impact we have on our environment and consider ways we can change.
I felt that the message portrayed the film was very strong and at times hard-hitting and so it may be good to show aspects if not all of the film after the children had done some investigating of their own. I think that the facts which appeared at the end of the film could be a trigger for a conversation, discussion and exploration by the children before seeing the film itself.
The imagery and cinematography displayed in the film would definitely be very evocative and effective in showing how amazing the planet is and why we need to work harder to ensure its security. -
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I found that Home by Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that powerfully illustrates the impact of human activity on our planet. This film and other climate change clips included in the module effectively highlight the urgency of environmental conservation through breathtaking aerial shots and compelling narratives. To introduce climate change facts with 5th and 6th class children, I would start with a short, engaging clip from Home. I would then facilitate a class discussion on their thoughts and feelings about the images and information. Using interactive activities, like creating posters or models showing the effects of climate change, would get a more hands-on approach. I would then move on to integrating cross-curricular links, such as writing reflective essays (English), exploring renewable energy sources (Science), and discussing environmental policies (Geography). Overall, I would hope this would lead to the children not only understanding the facts, but also feeling motivated to contributing positively to the environment.
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Yann Arthus-Bertran’s video ‘Home’ is a fantastic video capturing the amazing, natural beauty our planet possesses, while also showing the catastrophic damage humans are causing to our natural environment. This video enables the people viewing it to really think about how lucky we are to live on this earth and realise the seriousness of the damage we are causing. It is a great video to get conversations going, encouraging those watching it to see the issues we are causing and come up with ideas on how to rectify these major issues. Personally, I would divide this video up into different sections to use across a range of sequential lessons. I would use one video per lesson and then get children to create large concept maps on each section. I would split the children into groups to create digital and physical posters on greenhouse gases. Finally, I would show the children Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk to show them that their voices matter and can make a change.
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I found the information presented in module three very interesting. It really brought about the stark reality of climate change. I think the Home video might prove difficult for students, I would build up to it with some lessons where we had a talk and discussion on the main points of it. I think I would choose to show clips from the video of the main points instead of showing the video in full. I found the statements presented effective and I think they could be developed further with the children. Also, the Ted talk from Greta Humburg was thought provoking, it is very relatable for children, as she is similar in age and it really shows what a difference one person can make. I think, it would help to make the children feel empowered them where they feel that they can make a positive impact. This can be achieved with simple activities in the home, like turning off lights when not needed, recycling in the home and planting trees. I think the footprint calculator would be a good activity that the children might enjoy, and they could perhaps pass on some of the ideas and tips from the video to their families at home.
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I must be honest, when I saw that Home was an hour and a half long, I despaired a little. However, instead of loading the dishwasher, I put it on beside the kitchen sink, and decided to watch the start of it whilst using the hot water generated by the sun through the panels on the roof of my garage. After 20 minutes, I’d all the dishes washed, with less impact on the environment but with my interest in the documentary consuming me.
It was an incredibly well produced piece of film-making. Like Greta’s speech from a number of years ago, there were elements of hopelessness and futility to the small efforts that we might make in school. As Greta said, will using less paper or turning off the lights really make any difference if policy-makers and government don’t change the rules? Progress and the pursuit of wealth is something that the vast vast majority of people will not voluntarily reverse in exchange for the ideology of halting climate change. It has to come from laws and government.
Back in 2019, I stayed a few weeks with my uncle in Southern Florida. Some things struck me during those few weeks; i) Air-conditioning in every home and building cooling the 35 degree air to a comfortable 20, ii) A city law whereby people are not allowed to hang clothes outside on a washing line, so despite the heat, all clothes are dried in tumble driers, iii) No solar panels on any private home.
However, as was pointed out in the final 10 minutes of the documentary, changes are being made. In complete contrast to my first visit to the Mojave desert in 2007, my drive through Nevada and California last year I was struck by the millions of solar panels generating electricity. There were wind turbines in many states. When the USA, who had abandoned the Paris agreement, is making these changes, it is a good sign.
The video clips in this section are incredible and thought-provoking. The various statements of facts about the Polar Ice Shelf, the number of people without clean water, the extinction of animals, etc might be enough to really engage children’s minds.
I’m still unsure how we can hope to make the huge changes to our omissions that can only be achieved by a lot of sacrafices. In Ireland, we still aspire to go on holidays abroad. We are wealthy enough to want to own two cars per family, we enjoy all the myriad little luxuries that mean we emit 90 times more than people from Ethiopia and some other poor countries. The wind turbines that are seen as a solution only have a lifetime of around 20 years. The batteries for the electric cars that are seen as the green solution to private travel depend on intensive mining for lithium and other minerals that are not without severe impact on the environment. With the world population now over 8 billion, it is indeed a monstrous challenge to legislate, educate and actually encourage people to take the options to change their behaviours.
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Edwina, I think you’re absolutely correct in saying that in school, we can start making small steps in order to raise children’s awareness. The footprint calculator would be interesting. However, I would imagine, given the vast thousands of litres of water needed just to produce a kg of beef, we are most likely under-estimating our true footprint.
In school this year, I tried to rearrange our various football games, in order that we could walk to games or share buses with another team, etc. If we’re burning 100 million barrels of oil per day, I know that 30 litres of diesel isn’t a huge difference, but if it’s done enough times by enough people, it is a start.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful and visually stunning documentary that explores the planet’s diversity and the impact of human activity on the environment. The film is made entirely from aerial shots and is designed to give viewers a new perspective on the beauty of Earth and the challenges it faces. By incorporating “Home” into the classroom, teachers can inspire young students to appreciate the beauty of the planet and understand the importance of taking care of the environment.
Introduction to Climate Change:
- Begin by asking the students what they know about weather and seasons.
- Explain that climate is the usual weather of a place over a long time.
- Introduce the concept of climate change by explaining that the Earth’s climate is changing more quickly now because of certain activities.
Introduce the documentary, explaining that it shows many beautiful places around the world from a unique perspective and talks about how we can help protect these places.
Discussion:
- After watching the segments, discuss with the students what they saw.
Ask questions such as: - What did you find most beautiful or interesting?
- What are some things people do that can harm the environment?
- How can we help take care of our planet?
Simple Environmental Actions:
- Create a list of simple actions students can take to help the environment, such as recycling, conserving water, and planting trees.
- Make a classroom pledge to adopt one or more of these actions.
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While I found that the video was excellent and full of interesting facts and information, I couldn’t ignore the power and impact of the negative facts and images it shared. We have a huge responsibility to be mindful of the growing anxieties children are trying to navigate and so, while it is important to have balance in our delivery of the content, it is worth remembering that this resource is best used to back up the points of your lesson. This aid offers a multitude of stunning visuals of our world that are powerful in igniting passion to preserve our beautiful planet and I believe it is an effective tool for fostering this passion in children. Dipping in and out of this resource and nodding to the negative will also serve as an effective way of igniting a passion to bring about change and strengthen the fight to save our planet. This is without doubt an excellent and effective teaching resource when used in an age appropriate way.
I would be more inclined to show this video to a 6th class audience to back up the content of my lesson. I feel they would be more receptive to the balance of positive and negative effects of climate change and will be inspired to think of ideas on how we can help restore aspects of beauty of our planet moving forward. Geta Thunberg’s powerful Ted Talk would play nicely into this lesson, connecting with the pupils both on an age level as well as an inspiration level. Children greatly admire and look up to Greta and are always encouraged by her powerful words of wisdom on the need for chance and the importance of taking action now. Children can relate to Greta in the simplest way and can empathise with her concerns for our planet. Greta bridges that gap of age and so, when she speaks of what “we” must do to bring about change, children realise the “we” includes them and they become empowered
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I agree that this level would be great as 6th class is an age where children are progressing to secondary school next year and becoming more independent. This means that they will feel more powerful to make changes and take in the impact of the film and its messages. It is very important that we all realise how serious an issue this is, and how every person is responsible for change, however at the younger age groups, it may work better to show imagery and some short clips to display what climate change means, without showing every aspect of it. It is most important like you said that the video ignites a passion for wanting to change what is happening, and I think it would do this so it really is a great resource.
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Hi Aisling
I like your approach to using this video. Highlighting the positive images is a good way to inspire children to preserve the natural beauty of the Earth and to create an image of the kind of world we want to live in. Too many negative statistics while necessary to spur change in adults could overwhelm children so judicious use of short clips to highlight some of these issues and help explain the science of climate change and biodiversity loss, while focussing on the solutions to these problems is a good idea. I would also add some practical activities to model the greenhouse effect and some practical solutions focused project work on monitoring and reducing energy use in school or growing fruit and vegetables in the school garden.
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The film ‘Home’ and the additional video clips in this module, are powerful and interesting stimuli that highlight the impact of climate change on our planet. They convey the urgency and scale of environmental issues facing our planet through stunning visual imagery and compelling storytelling. They are excellent resources to capture pupils attention and captivate their interest in a very important topic. As this topic may be abstract to some pupils, the use of video clips makes it more tangible and relatable.
While introducing climate change facts to pupils, I would begin with a short, impactful video clip from “HOME” to spark curiosity, followed by an open discussion about students’ reactions and thoughts.
I would also include some Hands-On Learning, such as conduct experiments or simulations that illustrate the greenhouse effect, rising sea levels, or other phenomena shown in the videos. I would also be mindful to relate global issues to local examples. Discuss local weather patterns, pollution levels, or conservation efforts.
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ThThe film “Home” is breath-taking both in its beauty and in its message. Its statistics are mind-blowing and staggering, and combined with stunning imagery cannot fail to have an impact on the viewer. Like David Attenborough’s video, in the previous module, it starts with the creation of the earth and gives this a lot of time. I like the way the movie is segmented as this would be very useful for showing clips to children. It is a great tool for introducing the effects of climate change to children.
I think I would approach this firstly without mentioning climate change, but solely as a Geography or SPHE lesson on earth, allowing the children to appreciate & marvel at the origins of our amazing planet. The gradual approach in introducing the modernisation of the western world seems at first as an homage to humans’ creativity and ingenuity. Pupils will undoubtedly be shocked at the frightening statistics that follow.
The Greta Thunberg Ted Talk is also worth a watch and something children would relate to.
e film “Home” is breath-taking both in its beauty and in its message. Its statistics are mind-blowing and staggering, and combined with stunning imagery cannot fail to have an impact on the viewer. Like David Attenborough’s video, in the previous module, it starts with the creation of the earth and gives this a lot of time. I like the way the movie is segmented as this would be very useful for showing clips to children. It is a great tool for introducing the effects of climate change to children.
I think I would approach this firstly without mentioning climate change, but solely as a Geography or SPHE lesson on earth, allowing the children to appreciate & marvel at the origins of our amazing planet. The gradual approach in introducing the modernisation of the western world seems at first as an homage to humans’ creativity and ingenuity. Pupils will undoubtedly be shocked at the frightening statistics that follow.
The Greta Thunberg Ted Talk is also worth a watch and something children would relate to.-
The film “Home” is stunning and has a powerful message. Its beautiful scenes and shocking facts make it impactful for teaching children about our planet and climate change. Starting with the Earth’s creation, it gradually shows how human activities affect the environment. I would introduce it in Geography or SPHE class to help students appreciate Earth’s beauty and understand the impact of modern life. This approach allows them to connect emotionally with the issues before discussing climate change. Watching Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk would also help students relate to climate activism and understand the importance of environmental stewardship.
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The film HOME, directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, offers a visually stunning and deeply thought-provoking portrayal of our planet’s environmental challenges. It uses aerial footage to showcase Earth’s beauty and the impact of human activities like deforestation and pollution. This documentary effectively communicates the urgency of addressing climate change through compelling visuals and narratives.
Introducing these climate change facts to students involves creating a context where they can connect emotionally and intellectually with the issues. I would start by previewing captivating scenes from HOME to capture their attention and stimulate discussion. Using guided questions, I would encourage students to reflect on the environmental issues depicted and their implications for ecosystems and human societies.
Incorporating other video clips from the module, such as segments on the Paris Agreement and Greta Thunberg’s activism, would provide broader perspectives on climate change action and youth advocacy. Interactive activities like role-playing negotiations or debates on climate policies could deepen their understanding and engagement.
Overall, leveraging impactful visual media and interactive discussions will help students grasp the seriousness of climate change and empower them to consider their role in fostering environmental stewardship.
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Hi Andrea
I like your idea of selecting clips from Home and the other videos from this module and using them as a stimulus for classroom discussion. Using role playing and debate to help students understand the issues and the solutions is a good way to get them actively engaged in considering their own role in protecting the environment and encouraging others to do the same. Learning from examples of youth climate activists can help children to realise that they too can make a difference.
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The film HOME and other video clips in this module provide a vivid look at climate change and its impact on our planet. HOME, directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, shows how human activities like deforestation and pollution are harming Earth’s ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for urgent action to protect our environment and preserve biodiversity.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would start by discussing the film’s key messages in a simple and engaging way. We would watch excerpts from HOME and other relevant video clips to illustrate different aspects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, melting ice caps, and endangered species. Using visuals and real-life examples helps students grasp the severity of environmental issues.
Next, we would explore hands-on activities related to these topics. For instance, we could simulate the greenhouse effect using everyday materials or analyze data on carbon emissions in different regions. These activities encourage critical thinking and allow students to apply scientific concepts to real-world scenarios.
I would facilitate discussions on how climate change affects their lives and future generations, fostering empathy and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. By connecting scientific knowledge with personal experiences, students can develop a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and the importance of sustainable practices.
Overall, using multimedia resources like HOME and related video clips helps make climate change education accessible and impactful for students, inspiring them to become informed global citizens who actively contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
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After watching the film “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, I was deeply moved by its stunning visuals and compelling narrative. The documentary vividly illustrates the intricate connections between all forms of life on Earth and highlights the severe consequences of human actions on the environment. The breathtaking aerial footage, combined with thought-provoking commentary, drives home the urgent need for sustainable living.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would start with carefully selected clips from “HOME” to visually captivate them and set the stage for deeper discussion. These segments would serve as powerful conversation starters, helping students grasp the beauty and fragility of our planet. Following the viewing, we would engage in a class discussion, encouraging students to share their thoughts and emotions sparked by the film. This dialogue would help students understand the importance of their role in environmental conservation.
In addition to the video content, I would incorporate hands-on activities to reinforce learning. For example, conducting a school energy audit could help students identify ways to reduce their carbon footprint. We could also start a community garden to learn about biodiversity and sustainable practices first hand. Integrating local environmental issues with global challenges would make the concept of climate change more tangible and relatable for students.
I would also introduce projects that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Students could research and present on various aspects of climate change, such as the effects of deforestation, the impact of greenhouse gases, or sustainable energy solutions. These projects would not only deepen their understanding but also foster a sense of agency and responsibility.
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Hi Chloe
I like your approach here. Using clips from home as a stimulus for discussion of different global issues is a great idea and as you plan to intersperse these discussions with practical activities such as energy audits and research on problems and solutions, this will help to demonstrate to the children that while many of our actions are contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss, there are also ways that we can modify our own behaviour and take action towards limiting the effects. Your plan will help to make children aware of the issues but also demonstrate to them that they can make a positive impact.
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HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a compelling and heartbreaking account of the impact of human life has had on our beautiful natural planet. One of the interesting facts that I learned was that the earth has existed for 4 billion years and humans only appeared 200,000 years ago. The human thirst for power, greed and our lack of attention and care for our natural world is destroying it for our future generations.
I would use this video as a “trigger” to stimulate interest and discussion with an older class such as 5th and 6th . I would get the children to work in groups of 3 to identify what they think is the biggest problem. Then in their groups they could come up with a solution to this problem. I would give the children the opportunity to listen to Greta Thunberg to show the children how one voice whether it is an adult, or a child can have a direct impact on our thinking and our behaviour as human beings and how this can then influence our own carbon footprint and teach us that we each have a responsibility in caring for our planet
It is important at the end of the lesson to show the class the video of David Attenborough, where he celebrates some of the world’s most innovative solutions to help protect and repair our planet. -
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Home is a very interesting documentary and I would definitely use some clips from it for a lesson about climate change and the affect it is having on our planet. The video footage is really incredible and it does show the impact of global warming. It is particularly alarming to consider the speed of the damage that has been done and also how the problem is potentially getting worse. I think this video would work well in classes like 4th/5th/6th as a trigger to discuss the topic, potentially in groups. Though it is a worrying topic, it is also important that everyone realises the significance of this issue, and children will be at an age where they can make some real difference through what they do at home, day to day and in the future. The Greta Thunberg video would also be effective to show, as it shows how one child was able to cause such an impact and is so well known. I think it would be great if this video was the beginning of project work which then led to action projects that could be simple things like using less electricity, encouraging your family to use less electricity, walk more, recycling in the school, and buying less by doing a swap shop etc. I think in order for these topics to not become overwhelming, it’s important to follow lessons that could be a bit shocking or worrying by activities that make the children feel they do have some power to make a change.
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Home is a striking documentary that presents a powerful narrative on the how connected all our of environmental issues are on a global scale. The film uses aerial imagery to highlight the beauty of our planet while simultaneously showcasing the extensive damage caused by us and our many destructive activities. In Home we are presented with a very clear narrative alongside some stunning visual images which will make it an excellent tool for engaging children’s minds and sparking classroom discussions on climate change. I think there are lots of ways I could introduce this topic to my class, they love working on making digital KWL charts so that might be a good way to start. A Kahoot or Google Forms quiz will also help to ascertain how much they already know. The children are already very aware of Greta Thunberg and her activities so showing the video of her talk would also be useful.As mentioned by other posters here some of the children can be extremely anxious around these kind of topics so it would be important to take a positive and pro active stance.
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Hi Catherine
I’m glad you enjoyed the video Home and can see the value of it for understanding Climate Change. I like your idea of using Kahoot to assess children’s understanding of climate change before doing further work in the classroom and the digital KWL charts will certainly help to focus your classroom research and help you to decide what activities to do to help aid their understanding and get them involved in proactive activities.
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The video ‘Home’ was extremely eye-opening. The main reason I found the documentary so interesting was because there was a common denominator in all the Earth’s problems, humans. Even further on from that knowing that humans are responsible for the problem’s, it is also possible for humans to be the solution. As Greta Thunberg mentioned in her Ted Talk video, some people believe that the changes they make would not be beneficial if everyone doesn’t get on board. The reality it, small changes people can make add and contribute to all the solutions we as humans can engage with.
I really enjoyed the website where you can find your own carbon footprint. The results, I was very surprised with. There are definitely some further changes I can make to help climate change, even though I am only one person. If everyone made those small changes, results could be seen. In the classroom, I would definitely ask the children to participate in finding their own carbon footprint and how they can reduce it in their own homes.
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The film “Home” and other related video clips in this module are truly striking and provide an intriguing visual representation of the climate emergency. When teaching about climate change in the future, when introducing the facts, I would show excerpts from ‘Home’ and allow a class discussion to explore its impact and the urgency for action. We would then analyse additional clips, such as Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk or the Climate Aid 2020 video, to delve deeper into topics such as youth activism.
Following on from that, pupils could research various climate change topics like climate justice, effects of climate change and attempts to slow climate change like the Paris Agreement which they could then present on. I would incorporate practical activities like measuring carbon footprints which I did myself and was surprised to see how much over average I was compared to a typical UK citizen and may be really thought-provoking for the children, especially those in senior classes who are becoming more aware of issues in the world around them. A combination of methodologies such as videos, oral discussions, ICT, and practical tasks, should allow my pupils to develop a comprehensive understanding of climate change and their role in addressing it. This approach would foster critical thinking and empower students to make a positive difference in their community and in the world. I would also be inclined to emphasise the fact that change is possible rather than focusing excessively on the negative effects when learning about climate change to prevent pupils from developing climate anxiety.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning and powerful documentary that provides an overview of the environmental challenges facing our planet. With its breathtaking aerial footage and poignant narration, the film explores the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and highlights the impact of human activity on the environment. It’s a compelling call to action for sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
In the classroom i would begin by explaining that you are going to watch parts of a beautiful film about our planet. Emphasize that it shows many different places on Earth and talks about how important it is to take care of them. Ask the students if they have ever thought about how all the different parts of the world are connected. For example, how the trees in a forest far away can affect the air we breathe here.
After showing each part, pause and discuss:
What Did You See?: Encourage children to describe what they saw in their own words.
How Did It Make You Feel?: Talk about the emotions the footage evoked.
Why Is It Important?: Explain in simple terms why it’s important to take care of the places and animals they saw.
When introducing Climate to 7 year olds I would explain that the world’s weather is changing in ways that can sometimes be harmful to people, animals, and plants. Use examples like “Have you noticed how some summers are much hotter than others?” or “Sometimes it rains a lot more than usual.” Read stories or show pictures of animals and plants affected by climate change.
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Hi Karen
I love your approach to using clips from Home. You have a great way of introducing the clips and of pointing out the wonderful parts of our Earth that need to be protected. I particularly like the emphasis on pointing out connections between different parts of the world and how we are connected to and depend on the natural world.
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Hi Karen
I love your approach to using clips from Home. You have a great way of introducing the clips and of pointing out the wonderful parts of our Earth that need to be protected. I particularly like the emphasis on pointing out connections between different parts of the world and how we are connected to and depend on the natural world.
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Hi Karen,
I really like the approach you would take with the younger classes. I think you are right in showing parts of the documentary and having in depth discussions with them after each bit. I also like your introduction, I am sure the children will all want to reflect on the weather they have had over this summer when we go back in September.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary and I really enjoyed watching it. It touches on so many environmental issues that it’s hard to know where to start when looking at it as a classroom resource. Having researched the documentary, I love that it was uploaded to so many different platforms allowing so many people to access it. Here are some ways I may use it in a classroom setting.
Geography: The documentary could spark a lot of class discussion. Topics can include deforestation, water scarcity, urbanization, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Students could delve deeper into some of these issues discussed and create presentations suggesting ways these problems could be reversed.
Literacy: Students could look at how the documentary uses narrative and visuals to persuade and inform the viewer of these issues.
Science: Students could look at the various ecosystems mentioned in the documentary and choose one to highlight in a presentation.
Visual Arts: Students could be encouraged to to create artwork, poetry, or stories inspired by the themes of the documentary. These projects can be displayed in a school exhibition or shared online.
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Module 3:
This documentary was really well made, and I think it would appeal to senior learners as it is very visual. I like how the visual aspect of the video makes it assessable to all learners within the class including EAL pupils etc. I think it touched on all aspects of climate change very well, however as quite a long video, I would select one area of climate change in the video to focus on and just watch that as I would find it hard to justify that the children sit and watch something for that duration of time, especially as the new PC framework advocates so much for active/ hands on learning.
I noted that another participant mentioned eco anxiety, and this would be a big concern for me. I think as teachers, we need to be cognisant not to scare pupils. For this reason I think I would actually use the Paxi video from module 2 to teach climate change. I liked how it focused on small changes that children can make in a very child friendly way. This video, although useful, may negatively impact on children prone to anxiety, so I think I would give this one a miss if I felt my class would worry about climate change.
I did like the carbon footprint tool in this module, again very child friendly. I think I would sent the questions home with the pupils first as some of the questions I struggled with myself as a home owner (which I really should know!). Again, the tool is a nice way of helping pupils focus on small changes they can make.
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“HOME” is a visually stunning documentary that vividly illustrates the beauty of our planet and the severe impacts of climate change. To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would begin with engaging clips from “HOME” to capture their attention and evoke an emotional connection. Follow-up discussions would help unpack the content and relate it to their lives, promoting critical thinking. Supplementary clips on specific aspects like greenhouse gases and deforestation would break down complex topics. Integrating hands-on activities, such as experiments demonstrating the greenhouse effect, would reinforce learning through experience. Finally, student-led projects addressing local climate issues would foster a sense of empowerment and responsibility, motivating students to contribute to sustainable solutions. This approach combines visual storytelling with interactive learning to deepen understanding and inspire action
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‘Home’is a fairly powerful film and I would start by explaining that it shows beautiful and important places on Earth, how humans are affecting these places and how we need to change and take care of it. The film is a bit long for one viewing and I would break it up into short segments that clearly illustrate climate change impacts, such as melting glaciers, deforestation, and changes in wildlife habitats. We could preview each segment and explain the important concepts and reflect on what we learned. how they feel about climate change, and what actions they can take to help the environment. Emphasize the importance of caring for our planet and inspire them to make positive changes in their daily lives. “Home” is a visual and emotional tool that can effectively teach children about the importance of protecting our environment and the impacts of climate change. There is loads of scope for integration with subjects like art, science,English,geography etc
I liked the footprint calculator although I was unfortunately well over the world average and slightly above the UK average. Food for thought and the children could do it at home with their parents and see their results.
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Home is a beautifully shot documentary, with incredible images of the world presented to us. It shows us incredible landscapes and it explains the links between them and animals/vegetation. It has a very strong message about the damage we as humans are inflicting on our planet in our short time here.
I would be wary about showing this or the climate aid video you to younger classes in full as it might catastrophise everything a little more for them. I think they would pick up on some parts of it more leading to worry. It, to me, would work well in maybe 5th or 6th and would open up a great deal of discussion about what is driving the change, what do they think needs to be done? How is consumerism playing a part and what part do we play in that. Some clips from it would make great starting points for discussion and the information at the end is very important, to show that there are countries making great efforts to protect the environment.
The short clip about the climate action plan would also be useful in to start discussions. Most importantly to see if the children think it is enough, and are the government addressing it the right way.
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I thought the Climate aid video could be great to show a class but only after the necessary preparation was done beforehand. It’s quite distressing and even a sixth class would need to properly readied, usually this kind of conversation can happen at the end of the school year.
I’m always careful not to just bombard students with the harsh realities of their futures, it can overwhelm and demotivate, giving a sense of hopelessness. I would not show them the film “Home” for example. It is a thorough and beautifully shot catalogue of some of humanity devastation of the planet, ushering in an extinction event and a climate shift the speed of which has never been seen. It also doesn’t offer as much hope as most other climate documentaries I’ve seen, giving a brief but encouraging 10 minutes of hope at the end. I would choose one with more for students. Having said that it would be a great one to recommend to some climate sceptical co-workers or even parents as it doesn’t hold back at all in it’s condemnation of the inaction and action of the world whilst also displaying it’s beauty in dramatic scale.
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Hi Maurice
I like the idea of recommending Home to climate sceptics. I’m hoping that you don’t have too many climate sceptic co-workers in your school as it is important for those involved in educating our children to be informed about the harsh realities of climate change and to be informed about the science so that they can help to guide children in positive behaviour. There is so much misinformation out there that the more you can do to help counter this among colleagues and parents, the more the children will benefit. I agree with your reasoning on not showing Home to the children, unless as some others have commented you select specific short clips, and that a more hopeful and solutions focused approach can be more motivating for children.
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The Home video is a very powerful tool that I can definitely see myself using in the classroom. As it is quite a long video to show in one sitting for children I envisage myself using this in chunks to show and highlight different important points to the children such as the start when it gives the history of planet earth and then a different section to highlight the damage humans are doing and the rapid population increase and the affect agriculture is having both in such short periods of time. You could also use the Home video to do specific studies on different countries such as India, Greenland and Dubai which are mentioned in the film and how they are affecting/how climate change is affecting them, even comparison studies between different countries. The affects of deforestation, poverty, wild fires, global warming and rising sea levels are also other topics that could be explored through the use of this video. The end of the film is also good to show the children to show there Is hope with all the good things that different countries are doing to slow climate change.
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I love this idea of using the Home video to carry out studies on different countries and the impact that climate change is having on them. I also really like the idea of showing the end of the video in particular so the children know there is still hope for slowing climate change and that every small bit that humans do, helps.
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The video “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand gives us a very detailed look at the earth’s state. It highlighted the connection between life around the earth and the impact we as humans are having on the planet. It helps to show us the extent of the degradation of the environment as a result of many human activities like pollution and deforestation. The video really shows the importance of us as humans taking responsibility for our planet and how we need to act now in order to preserve it for the future.
I think this video might be too long for the children to watch in its entirety but it would be good to use parts of it as a stimulus for discussion amongst the older classes. The children could come then up with ideas to lessen our impact on the environment in pairs or small groups. We could draw up a class contract to include ways which we as a class could contribute to protecting the environment during the school day. This activity could be extended as a homework activity and the children could design their own contract for use at home with their families.
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Using the video “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, I would introduce climate change facts to my pupils through a structured and interactive lesson plan. I would start with a brief introduction to the video “Home,” explaining its focus on the interconnectedness of life on Earth and the impact of human activities on the environment. Then I would explain that the video provides a comprehensive look at the Earth’s history, highlighting how life has evolved over 4 billion years, with humans appearing only 200,000 years ago.
I would show the class carefully selected segments of the video that illustrate key climate change facts and concepts. I would incorportae visual aids such as charts, graphs, and images to reinforce the concepts discussed.
Following this I would introduce the interactive climate model tool that allows students to see the impact of different human activities on future temperatures and carbon dioxide emissions. It would be relevant to incorporate some inclass experiments to show the Greenhouse Effect.
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“HOME,” by Yann Arthur-Bertrand, is a visually striking documentary that captures the Earth’s beauty while highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation. The film illustrates the impact of human activity on our planet, emphasising the connections of all life and the stark realities and consequences of climate change. The film is visually stunning with beautiful clips of the power and beauty of nature, also including stark facts of the human impact on the environment.
To introduce these climate change facts to my class, I would start with a brief discussion , dumping, pollution etc. Then, I would screen select segments of “HOME,” particularly those showcasing the dramatic changes in landscapes due to global warming, deforestation, and pollution. Following the screening, we would engage in a guided discussion to help them articulate their thoughts and feelings about the film. To deepen their understanding, I’d incorporate interactive activities like creating environmental impact maps or participating in local conservation projects, making the global message of “HOME” relevant to their immediate world.
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I thought that the movie ‘Home’ was sensational. It explored so many ways in which our earth is suffering and the effects which it will have in years to come. Some interesting facts which I took from it were that despite the amount of sun Dubai has, there are no solar panels. Also that Las Vegas and Palm Springs which are both built on desserts but they consume a huge amount of water due to population in Las Vegas and golf courses in Palm Springs. I would like to show senior classes this movie as I feel that over a few days they could watch parts of it and they could learn different things about climate change. The pictures and the facts are easy to understand. I think children would find facts like the Amazon rainforest has been reduced by 20 per cent and that when the inhabitants of Easter Island exploited their natural resources and the civilization did not survive. I would give the children a response sheet to go with the movie and this would be like a fact finding sheet. I also think that the video clip of Greta Thunberg would be an interesting watch for the children and for them to give their opinion on climate change and compare and contrast that to Greta’s.
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Yann Arthus- Bethrand’s documentary film Home is a visual sensation. His images and visuals of aerial shots of the earth in various locations are astounding. He also shows the damage we as humans are inflicting on our own home planet earth. It is an eerie documentary that highlights the impact of our societies over reliance on the earth’s natural resources and the damaging affect it is having on our planet.
The documentary urges you to think of your own actions and reflect on how you alone can make a change. There is a strong message in the film that gives us hope “it is not what is gone it is what remains”, which encourages viewers to take as much action as we can while we still can to save our beautiful planet. It is a very powerful documentary film that is well worth a watch.
After watching the film home, it is reassuring to then watch Irelands Climate action plan to see that we as a country are taking the threat of climate change in our planet seriously. The plan goes through the various steps that are been taking and initiatives that are being implemented into our country over the coming decades to ensure that we are doing everything we can do as a nation to prevent climate change. The steps are all achievable and realistic which gives people hope after watching Home.
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It is important to emphasis to students when exposing them to the reality of climate change that these steps Ireland are taking will help our planet and we can make a difference. We can be overly focused on the damage we have done as opposed to the actions we can take to revert some of the damage. It is important that students are aware of these postitives as it can be a major source of anxiety for younger generation.
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Hi Emer,
I agree that climate change can be a source of anxiety for the younger generation and it is important to maintain a positive outlook as is emphasised in the Home documentary as you have mentioned ‘it’s not what is gone, it is what remains’. It is important to focus on small changes we all can do to make a difference.
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I watched the film “HOME,” and it was really eye-opening. The movie shows beautiful scenes of our planet from above and talks about how everything on Earth is connected. It also shows how humans are hurting the environment by cutting down trees, polluting the air, and causing climate change.
To teach these facts to my pupils, I would start by showing them some clips from “HOME” because the visuals are really powerful and can grab their attention. After watching, we would have a simple discussion about what they saw and how it made them feel.
I would also use easy-to-understand examples and activities, like comparing the melting of ice in a glass of water to the melting ice caps. We could even do fun projects like planting trees or recycling, so they can see how small actions make a difference. This way, they learn about climate change in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand.
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Module 3:
The film ‘HOME’ by Yann Arthus-Bertran is a fascinating and powerful video that shows us the impact we as humans have had on this planet so far. For children in a junior school it would be too much to show them this video in full – I feel breaking it up into much smaller sections or even just some of the pictures that are related to the topic we are doing that day would be more beneficial and the children will be able to concentrate and understand the topic better.
I believe that we need to focus on the positives for young children, things that they can do themselves that will help – recycling both in school and at home, walking to school or getting the bus instead of taking the car, using LED bulbs at home, turning off their tvs, games and lights once they are finished using them. Every small bit will help.
I enjoyed using the carbon footprint calculator but it was scary to see what impact I am having on the climate. I feel this calculator would be a fantastic resource to use with the senior side of the school as they will be able to use it correctly and they can also understand their impact on the climate. -
Home is a 2009 French documentary film by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. The film is almost entirely composed of aerial shots of various places on Earth. It shows the diversity of life on Earth and how humanity is threatening the ecological balance of the planet. The director Yann Arthus-Bertrand and a camera man, a camera engineer and a pilot flew in a small helicopter through various regions in over fifty countries. The documentary was filmed in all of the continents of the world, including Antarctica,
HOME showcases stunning aerial footage of the Earth, highlighting the beauty of our planet and the profound impacts of climate change. It emphasises the urgency of addressing environmental issues and protecting our natural resources.
Rather than showing the full video to my class I would focus on certain parts of it to highlight a topic I would like to introduce a particular topic. Video clips would be perfect to captivate their interest. Images and infographics are an excellent way to explain complex concepts visually.
I would use interactive activities to capture their interest and to encourage motivated learning.. For example I would use simple experiments to demonstrate effects like the greenhouse effect.
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Introducing climate change facts to primary school pupils after watching the video “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand can be both impactful and educational if carried out in the correct, age appropriate manner. This is how I would envisage using it in my classroom:
1. Start with a short introduction about the video and its purpose. Explain that “Home” shows how all life on Earth is interconnected and how human activities are affecting our planet.
2. Tell students they will learn about climate change, what causes it, and how they can help protect the Earth.
3. I would select key clips short, age-appropriate clips from “Home” that visually illustrate key points about climate change, such as deforestation, pollution, and melting ice caps. I would provide context before each clip, explaining what they should look out for and why it’s important.
4. Having watched the clips I would ask students how they felt about the video. What images stood out to them? This helps gauge their understanding and emotional response.
5. Host a Q & A session -Allow them to ask questions about what they saw. Answer in simple, clear language.
6. Use charts, diagrams, and pictures to explain how greenhouse gases trap heat and cause global warming.
7.Science Experiments- Simple experiments can make learning fun. For example, melting ice cubes in different environments to show the effect of temperature on melting rates.
8.Art Projects: Encourage students to draw pictures or make posters about what they learned. They can illustrate the difference between a healthy Earth and one affected by climate change.
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HOME is a very impactful movie for teaching pupils about climate change. It moves between showing the beauty of the planet earth whilst also showing the damage that has been caused by humans over exploiting natural resources. Pupils learn about the importance of protecting the environment from the damage that is highlighted in the film. It shows different ecosystems that exist which help pupils to see that everyone is connected in a shared global environment. I think the most impactful message in the film is that there is an urgency to climate change and the time for action is now and that people of all ages including the pupils themselves have a part to play in effecting change. This can lead to think pair share discussions in a classroom, where pupils can relate the idea of bringing meaningful change in the school environment. This can be linked to the school’s Green Schools plan and activities.
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Module 3 was very interesting but also bought home the serious nature of climate change. The stark reality of climate change in our world today was very prevalent in al of the videos. Home was a tough watch and it really showed the devastation that climate change is having throughout the world. There is no escaping the hard facts and visual reality from that video. I enjoyed Greta Thunberg’s Ted Talk. I think that the pupils would enjoy this and could relate to her as she is young also. She is a great role model for children, she is passionate and she catches everybody’s attention. She is a fantastic advocate for climate change. It would hopefully allow children see that they too could make a change. Every little change matters. They might feel empowered to also encourage their own families and together all these small changes can make a difference.
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I think Greta Thunberg is an admirable person and she certainly was ahead of her time as a teenager. I would however think twice about showing her Ted Talk to primary school pupils. She is indeed a true activist and I am sure that her young age alone and her passion in wanting to help do her bit for the planet should inspire the children. However her questions about whether the human race is evil or why are we continuing to eat meat and dairy is a little too much for young children. I do not believe that by becoming vegetarian we will save the planet.
I really enjoyed the film ‘Home’. Our world is breathtakingly beautiful and powerful and a treasure to protect. There is a lot of information to digest and of some of it is emotive. I think it might be a good idea to show the film in segments and perhaps from a different perspective to climate change. As the children’s knowledge of climate change grows, we could approach it from the climate change perspective. The beginning of the film offers possibilities for charting a time line in History and the carbon footprint calculator is a super activity that would interest both the teacher and the class!
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The video Home by Yann Arthus-Bertran even though over and hour and a half long felt like 10 mins as its powerful message engulfs you . I would have to introduce it in sections to a class to provide for question & answers and discussion. It has such an important message on the how the we are responsible for how our planet will fair out in decades to come. It is important to know that we can all help with the smallest of changes in our everyday lives. This would lead to the introduction of Greta Thunberg and how she has strived to help with climate change. This video would encourage the children to become role models for younger classes and involve them in helping jnr classes to recycle at school. The carbon footprint calculator would be a fantastic resource to make the children more aware of the impact they are having on the climate.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s documentary film “HOME” visits the issues associated with environmental damage and climate change. I think it is key to highlight the idea that all humans have a role to play in caring for the environment and that as humans, we all have a common duty to leave the earth as we found it, to ensure it thrives in the future. The film visits topics such as rising water levels, deforestation and pollution, all which occur due to human activities. A nice idea would be to put one pupil in the hot seat from 500 years ago and another pupil from today. Here the class would throw questions to each pupil based on the impact they have on the environment and compare their answers. For example, cars did not exist 500 years ago, so the modern day pupil will admit that by using a car, they are inadvertently damaging the environment in comparison to the pupil representing life 500 years ago. Similar topics would be hand washing clothes vs washing machines, fast fashion, the use of plastic and modernisation of last for commercial use. This places emphasis on the everyday activities that harm the environment without us knowing so.
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The film ‘Home’ by the French environmentalist Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a beautiful film. It delivers a powerful message but is full of stunning clips and images taken from around the world. The film highlights the beauty of nature and what can be seen on our globe. I think the film helps us to focus on our own impacts and how we can all play a role
The film is quite long so it is more suited to older classes, however, you could pick out clips that could be shown to all ages. This film would integrate with other subjects and topics including science, history and art.
I would focus on the message about how all things are linked. Water, land, food, transport and buildings are all related – the activities that we carry out all have an impact on the environment. The film shows us growth and change over time which would link nicely with previous activities that we looked at in Modules 1 and 2 when discussing climate change. -
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The Home documentary was very powerful and insightful. The scenery is beautiful and the way the film is made, makes you really think about the stark reality of this scenery and the extensive damage being done to it. I think that it would be a good teaching resource because the impact of human actions are shown very clearly. If you were teaching a younger class, you could use screenshots or still images from the film as a stimulus. I do think the film could be very engaging in older classes. I think Greta Thunburg’s Ted talk is probably the most useful resource of all. I agree with other participants that there is something very powerful about children recognising the activist as their peer. While students may be familiar with her and her cause, they may not have heard her speak in this capacity. It’s a great example of how social media can have a positive effect and also supports Autism awareness. I really liked the tool to rate your carbon footprint also and I think this could be an excellent resource for my 6th class next year.
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The HOME video was an interesting watch. It made me fall in love all over again with our wonderful planet, the aerial shots were magnificent. It documents the impact that human activity has on our planet. We have only been on Earth for a small percentage of Earth’s total existence, yet we are having the biggest impact on Earth’s climate change.
The WWF webpage survey was a good tool and child friendly. It gives a personalised insight into the carbon footprint
I would envisage introducing the climate change facts to pupils in my class by giving them the WWF webpage survey as a homework assignment. Their carbon footprint would just have to be written into their homework journal with a parental signature. I think this would be a good way to inspire the topic of carbon footprint to be discussed at home as well as school.
I think using Drama as a tool would help the pupils to connect more. For example, “Hot Seating” an historical figure – e.g. Tutankhamun and what has changed since he was alive in ancient Egypt, is it for the better or the worse? -
I thought that the ‘Home’ film was beautifully made and extremely moving. I don’t think I would show it in it’s entirety to a primary level class but there were sections that would definitelty provide oppourtinities for learning and discussion throughout a term.
The water cycle (science/geography) would tie into the opening sequence and the aerial photography would provide stimulus for art projects. I think showcasing climate change inspired art based on the film would make a good display to raise awareness in the school in general.
The Climate Aid 2020 video was very upsetting and I think I’d have to be careful about which class I would show it to. I think looking at screenshots and still images for and looking at positive ways we can improve our school, homes and local environment would be a good starting point. There is a lot of general anxiety as well as eco anxiety in schools at present and many children get quite upset at climate change content as they don’t have the same concept of time as adults and the longterm scale of a lot of the impacts being discussed often seem more immediate. In my opinion secondary school students may benefit more from this film but I learned a lot of information that I can share.
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I have chosen to comment on HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, and Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk.
HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that vividly showcases the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the environment. Its powerful imagery and compelling narrative emphasise the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for sustainable living.
Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk is equally impactful, delivering a passionate and articulate call to action. Her emphasis on the scientific facts of climate change, combined with her personal commitment, serves as a strong motivator for young audiences. Her clear, direct message highlights the responsibility of individuals and governments to act swiftly to mitigate environmental damage.
Introducing Climate Change Facts to Pupils:
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would start with the documentary HOME to provide a broad visual and emotional understanding of the Earth’s beauty and fragility. The film’s stunning visuals can captivate students and serve as a foundation for deeper discussions on specific environmental issues.
Following this, I would show Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk to demonstrate the power of youth advocacy and personal responsibility in combating climate change. Greta Thunberg’s age and dedication make her a relatable and inspiring figure for students, showing them that they too can make a difference.
Classroom Activities:
1. Discussion and Reflection: After watching the film and TED Talk, I would facilitate a class discussion to reflect on the key messages and emotional impact. Students can share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a personal connection to the topic.
2. Research Projects: Assign students to research specific aspects of climate change, such as its effects on different ecosystems, renewable energy solutions, or the role of policy in environmental protection. This encourages deeper learning and critical thinking.
3. Action Plans: Have students develop individual or group action plans on how they can reduce their carbon footprint or advocate for environmental sustainability in their communities. This empowers students to apply what they’ve learned in practical ways.
Improvements and Additions:
• Local Context: Integrating local environmental issues and solutions can make the topic more relevant to students’ lives.
• Guest Speakers: Inviting environmental scientists or activists to speak to the class can provide real-world insights and inspire further action.
By combining these powerful visual and narrative tools with interactive and reflective activities, students can develop a comprehensive and motivated understanding of climate change and their role in addressing it. -
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“Home” is a documentary film that looks at the impact we have had on our planet. It uses stunning imagery of our planet from areas all over the world. Along with this imagery voiceovers give us information that highlights what humans have done to damage the planet in a short space of time. It shows how agriculture, manufacturing and consumerism has greatly accelerated climate change. One particular area that I found interesting was deforestation. Not only was the mass sourcing of eucalyptus damaging to the trees, but it also greatly impacted the ability of other vegetation to grow. This highlighted how Eucalyptus, palm oil and other farms can have a hugely detrimental impact on our planet. It also highlighted how the poorest countries economies are propped up by this farming. This means that should we stop the farming of these products we will also decimate the livelihoods of the poorest people on the planet. It’s a shocking example of how businesses have incentivised countries to destroy their own climate to create jobs. Situations like this seem dire and leave people wondering at solutions. Overall, the film does a great job of highlighting the issue of climate change while showing the beauty of the planet that is worth saving.
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Hi Dara,
Thanks for your post. Home really is an eye-opener to the level of devastation in our environment and how even the bounty of our planet has limits that we exceed every year. It is powerful, and may be at times overwhelming, depending on the age and maturity of the viewer, so teachers may choose to show a segment rather than the whole film, as It is a lot to take in in one sitting. The focus must be on growing awareness without eco-anxiety. It is also important to shed some light on the positives, of which there are many, particularly those at a local level. We are making progress here in Ireland and need to continue to do so at an accelerated rate, as reported recently in the Irish Times: Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 reach lowest level in three decades – The Irish Times
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I was captivated by the Home film and found it cinematically beautiful, to the point that I switched over to watch it on a bigger screen to fully appreciate it. I found the opening scenes humbling in reminding us of our comparative insignificance in the grand scheme of things. However, I am uncertain of it’s suitsbility for children, even for 6th Class. As I mentioned in previous modules, I am highly conscious of the levels of anxiety in children surrounding the area of the cliamte crisis and I’m not convinced that this film will impart the messages in a tone that is child-friendly. I could, however, envisage selecting clips from it as a focus for extension work. I have done a creative writing and poetry lesson on evolution over the last number of years (borrowed from the old Alive-0 programme, I’m almost certain) whereby the creation of the world as we know it is compressed into a day. This highlights for the children how much of the great change that has taken place has occurred practically on the stroke of midnight. It always captivates them, and I feel certain sections of this film would further enhance this lesson. Outside of that, I find David Attenborough’s A Life on our Planet to be far more child-friendly and positive and far less anxiety inducing than Home
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I felt that the film Home by Yann Arthus was captivating and intense. Perhaps too intense for most primary school children. That said it definitely has the impact needed to send the message home that climate change is happening and sadly our overpopulated race are to blame for many facets of it. I think it would be important for primary level teachers to chose small clips of the film to introduce lessons or consolidate learning rather than watching the film in it entirety. There are many many topics that could be introduced or lessons closed using clips from this film but teachers need to remember that some of our students are already quite conscious and worried about climate change due to many schools already having explored these topics through the green schools programme, and it is important that we do not create panic or anxiety in any of the students that’s already be quite concerned.
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I felt that the film Home by Yann Arthus was captivating and intense. Perhaps too intense for most primary school children. That said it definitely has the impact needed to send the message home that climate change is happening and sadly our overpopulated race are to blame for many facets of it. I think it would be important for primary level teachers to chose small clips of the film to introduce lessons or consolidate learning rather than watching the film in it entirety. There are many many topics that could be introduced or lessons closed using clips from this film but teachers need to remember that some of our students are already quite conscious and worried about climate change due to many schools already having explored these topics through the green schools programme, and it is important that we do not create panic or anxiety in any of the students that are already be quite concerned.
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I thought the film Home was beautifully shot and really hammers home how humans (the alleged wise ones) have caused so many problems. I was really shocked when I read that it was released 13 years ago and again really asks questions about what our leaders have been doing. No wonder Greta Thurnberg speaks the way she does. I found her TEDTalk excellent. This video is definitely something I would show to my class in its entirety.
I was reading other participants posts and saw suggestions of showing excerpts of Home to their class or emailing the link to parents. I don’t know how many parents would watch it? And it might be an interesting experiment to show the whole film in it’s entirety and see what sort of reaction it receives. Obviously you don’t want to upset anyone or give the children even more climate change anxiety, but I found the Climate Aid 2020 video, which is obviously far shorter, far more upsetting.
I think it would be a fantastic introduction to the topic of climate change, but if I found it so upsetting, I would worry about how a group of 30 12-year-olds would take it. In saying that, it is their future and as a mother of two young daughters, I think that the youth of today need to be informed, so that they will make our governments listen to them. I also listened to a couple of the hot mess podcasts recommended by Catherine. The Fossil Fools one really interested me and how the war in Ukraine could actually help Europe reach it’s carbon emissions reduction targets by getting away from Russian oil and gas…of course that is only if decisions are made to go renewable. Here’s hoping
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I found the video Home very interesting and insightful into the affect we are having on our planet as a result of climate change. I agree with others and feel it would not be suitable for young children and that we also as teachers have to be mindful of striking a balance between raising awareness of climate change and not fostering fear in the children.
Most of the children would already be aware of Great Thunberg and I feel that they can relate to a person of their own age much better that an older person. I also feel that she can inspire young children as she wasn’t much older than them she she started highlighting the issues of climate change.
As you said yourself watching the Climate Action video 2020 was tough going as it highlight the impact we are having on our planet. The image of the dolphin eating the plastic bag sticks in my mind and I feel would really highlight to the children the impact that they have on the planet and how small changes by lots of people can have a big impact. It would also encourage then to reduce their use of single use plastics.
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Hi Jamie,
I think you are right that we must be mindful as to the content shown to the younger children, with many images, as you said difficult to watch for adults. However, the message of ensuring our shores and beaches are kept clean and that we are mindful of caring for every creature, is one that could be taught in all classrooms. The material certainly hit home with me, to ensure that as teachers we can encourage children to think about what we can do locally, in our classrooms and our homes, encouraging Climate Champions in our classrooms.
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I have used Home by Yann Arthus when teaching various aspects of Junior Cycle content. I have used it in Geography when teaching about the physical landscape and the shape of the world, I have also used it for Climate in Geography and some of the footage for the study of people, communities and movement across the world.
I have used it in the study of the environment in CSPE when students are clearing about Stewardship. They look at this along with a broad spectrum of material on Climate change, nature and the natural world.
I would love to use this and the other resources for this section, particularly Greta Thunbergs video on climate change. I think these are excellent ways to show students that we are all part of the change, no matter how small our part is, we can make a difference to the natural world and allow these beautiful natural processes to happen, rather than choose jobs that might add to the greenhouse gases, raising temps etc. Like Greta, students have to be part of the change and they have not yet started to make a huge difference to the crisis as they do not work in any particular industry. If people choose jobs that combat the crisis rather than add to it, they will become part of the change.
THis video could also be studied as part of a study of the industrial revolution and advances in technology and farming and the profound negative effect this has on climate. The sprays and pesticides, the over production of meat from cattle farms, butter mountains, milk rivers etc shows how the production far outweighs what is needed, while developing countries have nothing, produce very little etc. The oil industry and its profound affect on the environment is a disaster. This video would show students how if we continue to live like this, and our desire for comfort and food production continues to grow, humanity will begin to see dire consequences on everyday life.
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Climate Aid Video 2000 was powerful and emotive. This shows climate change and the reality of how animals and humans are suffering in so many places on Earth, there is no place that is not feeling the strain of climate change, some much more than others.
The Ted Talk Video with Greta Thunberg is inspirational, she is a leader in our world, at such a young age, she has awoken many to the message of what is happening, how we must act now and what we must do immediately.
Home, is a sobering piece, it tells the reality of what we have done to the place we call home and how we must do better. How we live our lives on this planet must, as the film tells us, be based on moderation, intelligence and sharing. The narrator tells us that there is no time for pessimism. The hope of our human creativity and how we need to stop drilling the earth and look to the sky for solutions, looking at what we can do now, was greatly inspiring. It is a beautiful, stark piece.
In the classroom I would be mindful as to what and how much I would show of the above digital videos, however there are parts of each that would benefit the children and inspire talk and discussion, around this subject matter and what we can do locally and individually. -
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‘Home’ by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a powerful video for not only children but adults also. It really demonstrates clearly the impact of our actions on planet Earth from an Environmental point of view. The sheer beauty of nature is showcased throughout this well narrated video. The underlying message is urging us to understand the rapidly changing planet we live in. As I teach in Junior School, I think I would show segments of this video to the children rather than the whole video depending on the topic I was teaching at that time. It is a great resource for making the students aware of the pressure humans have placed on the planet and how with small changes we might be able to help contribute to making positive changes in our world.
I also think Greta Thunberg’s video is an excellent resource to facilitate conversations with the children about climate change and action. As Greta is a young adult herself, I think the children would really listen and pay attention to her words. She is one human making a huge difference and this is important for the children to realise. Having these conversations is a way of educating the youth of today about these important issues. I will definitely use this video next year.
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“Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand really showcases the Earth’s beauty. It also illustrates the diversity that is to be found on our planet. One of the main things that I took from the film is how so many aspects of our environment are interconnected. Everything that humans do has an impact on some aspect of the environment and it’s important that we realise this as we continue to try to halt the demise of the planet. From overpopulation to pollution, deforestation, and fossil fuel dependence, the film urges us to recognize their impact on our fragile world. I like the fact that the images are so vivid and captivating, which would be very useful in the classroom. We could use snippets from it as a stimulus for discussion.
I like the idea of including some of the Greta Thunberg videos in the class too as most people have heard of her and are aware of what she stands for. It might be something for the children to realise the impact that they could have, even in their own local communities.
Planting and caring for small plants might be a good way to start in the classroom and we could progress to more significant efforts/pledges thereafter.
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The documentary “Home” by Yann Arthus Bertrand is beautifully shot and it really brings home the effects that human activity have had on our planet. It showcases the natural beauty of Earth as well as the challenges we face to save our planet. It places an emphasis on the urgency of addressing issues such as the loss of animal life and climate change. I think it would be an excellent tool in education to show children the beauty of our planet so that they can form a deeper appreciation for it. It also encourages them that action needs to be taken. This video is long, so it would work better if it was shown in different parts. Children could note down important information during the video for discussion afterwards.
The Greta Thunberg TED Talk video also presented a powerful message. The children would able to relate to her and I think they would look up to her as someone who leads by good example.
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I saw ‘Home’ by Yann Arthurs Bernard a few years ago and enjoyed watching it again as part of this module.
The scenery and footage is breathtaking from the deserts, rainforests to icebergs. Its epic! Even the opening narrative is thought provoking!
It is quite heavy really and it is also long- one hour and thirty three minutes. I had fourth class this year and I don’t think they would be able to concentrate on it in one sitting. Perhaps if I showed it over three lessons and follow with a discussion. This would take preparation but would be worth it. They could discuss point raised in groups. I have third class next year so I will give it a go in segments.
It could probably be shown to students in fifth and sixth in one go and might make a nice conclusion to a block of work on climate change/ the greenhouse effect. Therefore it would be essential that the children had been taught the content/ vocabulary before watching it. Otherwise I think the children wouldn’t be able to concentrate for the duration of the movie. -
The really enjoyed watching the film ‘Home’. The beautiful images of the world we live in, its forest, oceans, desserts and life species were very powerful at the beginning. The film began by showing climate change came about. It really explained how life exists and that life is dependant on the sun, the water, trees and the atmosphere around us. It was amazing to see how we as humans since our existence have made huge developments in farming, agriculture. However the film also showed that some of these developments are also detrimental to us. Examples such as farmers using pesticides and fertilisers have lowered soil quality. Its showed that mass meat production means more transportation to feed cattle, which in turn means more fuel is used. I could not believe that 40% of the world’s arable land has experienced long term damage and that 13m forests disappear each year. The facts outlined in the video towards the end were staggering.
I think I would probably integrate climate change into my geography/science lessons. I would probable get the children to watch this film ‘Home’. When teaching for eg. about the Water Cycle, I would give statements and questions to groups in the class and let them discuss the necessity of water for us. I would probably get them to research facts about water and climate change. They could then graph their findings. I would get each group to present their research and findings and present these finally to the whole school either orally or on poster formats in the school. There is so much scope for teaching climate change. I think it could be incorporated into a lot of curricular areas. -
I agree with Aoife. The Beauty of the world is incredibly illustrated in the film ‘Home’. It is powerful not only for the children but for the adults too. It is so important that we as adults/teachers teach our children why we must act now. The end of the film mentioned some of the fantastic programmes/actions being taken globally to slow down climate change. So there is hope.
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The video ‘Home’ is an excellent detailed account of climate change and its impact on our planet. It can be used as a good introduction to the topic and emphasizes the urgent need for change. It will foster discussion on how we can change as a society, the difficulties we are encountering and where we can start especially as a school community. The talk from Greta Thunberg really highlights the urgency of the crisis and how it is the youth of today that will face the problems of tomorrow if we continue our current path. We need to continue to empower pupils into action and this video along with the Ted talk provide the necessary knowledge needed for this to happen. The carbon footprint calculator from the WWF highlights exactly how we as individuals and as a community can tackle the issues. This activity can also empower pupils to take action in the home but as a good starting point in the school community working together to reduce emissions.
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I found the video “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand quite fascinating. With the help of an organized and engaging lesson plan, I would provide my students with information about climate change. I would begin by giving a quick synopsis of the video “Home,” emphasizing its emphasis on the interdependence of all species on Earth and the effects of human activity on the environment. Then I would clarify that although humans have only been on the planet for 200,000 years, the video offers a thorough examination of Earth’s history, showing how life has changed over the course of 4 billion years.I would play back to the class carefully chosen clips from the video that highlight important information and ideas related to climate change. In order to further solidify the ideas covered, I would use visual aids like graphs, charts, and pictures. After that, I would walk students through using the interactive climate model tool, which shows them how various human activities will affect future temperatures and carbon dioxide emissions. Including some in-class experiments to demonstrate the greenhouse effect might be helpful.
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The video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful video that highlights the extremity of climate change on different parts of the world. While it may be overwhelming to watch from beginning to end, I would use certain parts of the video to explore and investigate specific issues such as overfishing, water usage or deforestation, as a means of promoting awareness among the children rather than eco-anxiety.
I think Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk on climate change would be a more suitable video to use in the classroom as a stimulus for investigating the topic Climate Change. Given that Greta is a similar age to children in the senior classes, I think her message surrounding the need to combat climate change becomes a lot more relevant and interesting for the children. Following this video, the children could use the TEAL tool to investigate climate variables for various countries around the world. At a school community level, the children could follow up this video by calculating their Carbon Footprint, examine Ireland’s Climate Action Plan and create a suitable School Plan, or develop school initiatives to promote awareness around Climate Change and the need to take action.
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The film ‘HOME’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s is very moving! It really highlights the major issues that arise from climate change and how these impact our environment. I think a lot of the concepts mentioned in the Home video are abstract and may need to be broken down for the younger classes. Perhaps a topic could take a focus each week for example: Overfishing on Week 1, Water Pollution Week 2, Deforestation Week 3. By doing this, the children can build on their learning from the previous week but it also doesn’t overwhelm children either with learning all new concepts in one lesson! Prior to watching the video, I would ask the children to take note of 3 questions they would ask about the video. At the end of the video, class discussion would occur surrounding the video and what stuck out to the students. I would then ask the children to share their questions with the class. I would then call on the other students to see if any of them could answer the childrens questions. By doing so, the lesson is interactive and collaborative and everyone is learning from each other! My overall lesson objectives for Lesson 1 would be to introduce the topic of climate change to the children and also to encourage and develop critical thinking skills. I would then build on this learning by focusing on different aspects of climate change in future lessons
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The video Home is a powerful video with beautiful imagery that strongly gets across the message that we need to focus not on what’s gone but what remains.Over half our forest still remain in the world. It highlights the fact that there are extremes in the world we live in. The video home highlights the fact that there are over 1 billion people starving in the world while the rest are overfed. It highlights the fact that we as humans are depleting what nature gives us.The imagery in this video is absolutely breathtaking and is definitely suitable for senior classes. I think I would begin by having a brainstorming whole class discussion about climate change ..try and elicit from the children what their understanding is and what they feel is happening in the world right now.We would then watch the video and afterwards I would get the children into small groups to discuss what they have seen and to try and focus more on the positive that was mentioned in the video to focus on what still remains not gone and what we can do to help slow climate change. Again even with a senior class, I think as young children the focus should be what they can do in their immediate environment. Turning off the tap ,reducing water consumption ,turning off the light switch ,turning off the television, walk to school or cycle to school ,recycle …all of these are within the grasp of even the youngest child. I think it’s very important that This will be the focus for young children.If they could grasp that the small things they do every day at school and at home will have an impact and help stabilise climate change. I would possibly briefly show the Greta Thornberg video just so that they can see young people have a voice and have the power to influence and change actions. However again I think the primary focus should be on what can we do every day small things to make a change. A follow-up activity might be trying the experiment that’s listed in module two ..the ice is melting.
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Hi Barbara,
Thanks for your post. The Home video does serve as a powerful reminder that we need to focus on what remains, not what is gone. It’s a lot to take in in one sitting, (even as an adult! ) but depending on class age, some segments may serve a purpose in deepening understanding about the current crisis and its solutions.
Some other posts have made reference to the “circle of control”, and I think that it is important because students have limited capacity to make choices at this point in their lives. Parents/guardians determine what they eat, how they travel, they are too young to vote, etc, but we each can do little things and together, these little things can have a big impact, inspire further and greater acts of sustainability, and influence others to do better.
The worksheet for the Ice is Melting is a great hands-on activity, providing a series of robust questions for learners to answer, and a great add on to your class plan.
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The Home video is beautiful to watch, so eye catching and colourful. I would use the video clip to start a lesson about how beautiful our world is. We could link this to an art or photography lesson where they would photograph or draw our beautiful world. This could then springboard a discussion about beautiful places in our own locality and what we, the children and staff of the school can do to protect and mind it. I think by having a plan and physically being able to do something to protect the planet ourselves then it avoids creating anxiety and worry in young children.
The Green Flag is an excellent example of how we can achieve this in our schools, making small changes which can make a huge impact. Our Green Team made the suggestion this year that children bring their own hand towel to school instead of the school buying and providing paper hand towel for them in the bathrooms. We are a very large school, so the impact on the amount of rubbish generated by the school was considerable and the children were delighted with the difference they made.
I would finish the lesson by showing the children the carbon footprint calculator and showing them how even the small steps of turning off lights and televisions and walking to school on dry mornings can reduce our carbon footprint. -
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The video was excellent and full of interesting facts and information. However, I couldn’t ignore the power and impact of the negative facts and images it shared. Given the growing anxieties children are navigating, it is crucial to balance the content delivery. It reminded me of Michael Jackson’s ‘Earth Song’ at times, this is something I usually show to the children when teaching about climate change.
The video offers stunning visuals of our world, which are powerful in igniting a passion to preserve our beautiful planet. I believe it is an effective tool for fostering this passion in children. Using this resource selectively, and acknowledging the negative aspects without dwelling on them, can effectively spark a desire for change and strengthen the fight to save our planet.
Overall, this is an excellent and effective teaching resource when used in an age-appropriate way.Greta Thunberg’s powerful Ted Talk would integrate nicely into this lesson, resonating with students both on an age level and as a source of inspiration. Children that know of her greatly admire and look up to Greta, finding encouragement in her compelling messages about the necessity for change and the urgency of taking action now. They relate to Greta and empathise with her concerns for our planet.
Greta effectively bridges the age gap, making her call to action inclusive of young people. When she speaks of what “we” must do to bring about change, children understand that the “we” includes them, empowering them to take action. It’s truly inspiring to see a young person with such passion.
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Hi Tina,
Thanks for your post. You make important points, and I agree that it is important to balance the content delivery. It’s a challenging balancing act that each teacher must consider in their selection of resources. The Earth song is a powerful intro to the topic and a good choice with contrasting images of life with and without forests and biodiversity, and a dramatic yet accurate depiction of our impact.
Greta is a wonderful role model, and her no-nonsense, clear-cut viewpoint on the issue and courage in taking a stand at such a young age is a powerful reminder of our ability and power to demand change. Closer to home, we have a lot of inspirational young influencers, too, such as Saoirse Exton, who is the Western European representative on the seven-member UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group (YAG) on Climate Change.
The following article highlights sher work and those of other young activists here in Ireland: ‘A world with climate justice is a better world’: Meet the young Irish people fighting for the environment (msn.com)
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Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that illustrates the Earth’s fragile beauty and the devastating impact of human activities on the environment. The film uses breathtaking aerial footage to highlight the interconnectedness of all life and the urgent need for sustainable practices. Its compelling message is a call to action for global awareness and responsibility in addressing climate change.
To introduce climate change to students, I would use interactive methods like multimedia presentations, hands-on experiments, and discussions. Starting with “Home” clips can engage students emotionally, followed by exploring the science behind climate change through experiments like carbon footprint calculations. Encouraging students to brainstorm local solutions and participate in eco-friendly projects can make the issue personal and actionable, fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility.
I would also allow them to watch the Greta Thunberg videos. I think it would be quite empowering for them to see someone close to their age with big ideas and views being listened too. I think they could respond and show great engagement after seeing a young person deliver a powerful message. -
HOME, a 2009 French documentary film by Yann ArthusBertran is a impactful movie for teaching pupils about climate change. It shows the beauty of the planet earth whilst also showing the damage that has been caused by humans. Pupils learn about the importance of protecting the environment from the damage that is highlighted in the film.
Below are some of the steps I would take in teaching the children about climate change using this video.
KWL on climate change brainstorming what we may already know. Discussion on climate change, what causes it, and how they can help protect the Earth.
I would select key clips short, age-appropriate clips from “Home” that visually illustrate key points about climate change, such as deforestation, pollution, and melting ice caps, providing context before each clip, explaining what they should look out for and why it’s important.
Having watched the clips I would put students into groups to discuss and share how they felt about the video. What images stood out to them?
Science Experiments- students could conduct an experiment to determine how greenhouse gases affect the surface of the earth, by creating two mini environments. One environment will be covered in plastic wrap to simulate greenhouse gases and global warming.
Art Projects: Encourage students to draw pictures or make posters about what they saw and discussed. Using image that impacted them the most. -
Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a very interesting and impactful piece of work. It would be a great resource to use to introduce climate change to the class however, I think it could be best shown in parts covering certain topics rather than showing the full film at one time. The imagery certainly shows how beautiful our planet is but there is a focus on the negative impact climate change has had and a lot of information to take in. I have noticed from teaching older classes that a lot of children are very aware of issues and some even anxious when discussing the topic. I think it would be important to allow children to work in groups and do further research and present ways that we could make positive changes to help the situation as the film explores the impact of human activity on the environment. Regarding other videos, I would show the video of Greta Thunberg to allow children to understand that we can all do our part, this is also a younger person fighting for change and could be very positive for children to see.
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The video titled “HOME” is a powerful and compelling piece that vividly illustrates the impact humans have on the planet, making it an excellent catalyst for sparking children’s interest in environmental topics. Following this, we could explore additional content, such as Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk, to dive deeper into youth activism. The children would then research and present on various climate change issues, supplemented with hands-on activities like calculating carbon footprints. I would include interactive stories highlighting how climate change affects children globally, encouraging empathy and understanding. The children could also create posters and drawings to depict the effects of climate change and participate in a class project focused on generating ideas to reduce their own carbon footprints.
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The video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertran is a powerful documentary which focuses on the impact our human activities are having on our planet. The film highlights the dire problem that we are facing, of climate change and exposes the sad story of how the earth’s animals and humans are threatened on our planet. The film strives to send the message to us that we need to stop, take care of our planet and do all we can to fight against climate change. We must listen to the urgent warnings about climate change to protect future generations.The amazing images and video footage at the beginning of the video is jaw dropping. It gives lots of facts, such as informing us about the earth existing for 4 billion years with humans only existing 200,000 years ago. I do think that only sections of this video should be shown to students.
I would introduce the remarkable child activist, Greta Thunberg. I would tell the students how we all can help save our planet. I have gathered some children’s’ books about Greta Thunberg, such as Our House Is on Fire: Greta Thunberg’s Call to Save the Planet, Greta and the Giants and Greta Thunberg. These books would be given to children to read in groups before I would play some short pieces from Greta’s powerful TED talk.
I would arrange the children in groups and encourage discussion about the video. I would get them to use the carbon footprint calculator to calculate their own carbon footprint. I would get the children to design posters from scenes in the video that inspired them. I would then get the children to put questions together that they may have from the video/ TED talk. We would discuss these, use IPADS to find answers to our questions. I would invite a local environmentalist into the classroom and hope that he/she may answer any other unanswered questions the children may have from the lesson.
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Hello Christine,
Thanks for your post. The video, Home, is a masterpiece, and I think you have the right idea to select sections to show your learners. I like how you plan to lean into Greta Thunberg’s work – she is a remarkable activist, and we need more like her! Your selection of Greta’s books for children will make this topic accessible and age appropriate for learners.
It’s a great idea to get a local environmentalist in to give a talk. I recommend reaching out to see if you have any climate ambassadors in the area. These volunteers receive An Taisce training on how to communicate on climate change, and have decks to use in schools. Here is the link to the program, you can search by province: Climate Ambassadors – Climate Ambassador
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Introducing climate change facts to children requires a thoughtful and age-appropriate approach to ensure they understand the concepts without feeling overwhelmed or scared. Some strategies: (Ages 4-7)
Simple Concepts and Visuals:
Use Stories and Picture Books: Choose books that explain climate change through engaging stories and colorful illustrations.
Relate to Everyday Life: Explain how taking care of the Earth is like taking care of their home or toys. For example, “When we recycle, we help keep our planet clean and happy.”
Interactive Activities:
Nature Walks: Take them on walks to observe nature. Talk about how trees and plants help clean the air.
Crafts and Projects: Make art from recycled materials or create posters about saving water and energy.
Positive Actions:
Simple Actions: Teach them small, positive actions they can take, like turning off lights when leaving a room or not wasting water.
Gardening: Plant a tree or a small garden together to show how plants grow and contribute to the environment.(Ages 8-11)
Basic Science Concepts:
Explain the Greenhouse Effect: Use simple analogies like a blanket keeping the Earth warm to explain how greenhouse gases work.
Talk About Weather vs. Climate: Explain the difference between daily weather and long-term climate patterns.
Hands-On Learning:
Experiments: Conduct simple science experiments, like showing how ice melts faster in warm water to represent polar ice melting.
Educational Videos: Watch age-appropriate documentaries or educational videos that explain climate change.
Involvement in Solutions:
Energy Saving: Teach them to save energy by using energy-efficient bulbs and turning off electronics when not in use.
Recycling and Composting: Involve them in recycling at home and explain how composting helps reduce waste.-
Hi Niall
Those are some great simple ideas there. As you said, it is important to introduce the topic of Climate Change in an age appropriate way. For the younger children, using story books and simple explanations is a great idea. I also like the way you have included the topic through simple everyday actions. As everything we do contributes in either a positive or negative way to Climate change it should be part of our everyday lives and included in every part of the curriculum and you have outlined some great ways to do this. In the older classes, you can then move on to the explanations of what climate is and the science of climate change as you have outlined.
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I found this video ‘HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand’ very interesting, informative and engaging.
This video shows aerial footage from 54 countries, depicting how Earth’s problems are all interlinked due to the pressure humanity has placed on the environment and the consequences of climate change.
I think this video would provide an excellent basis for discussion in the classroom around the actions of humans and their contribution to climate change. Human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. The consequences of climate change include, among others, intense droughts, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, flooding, melting polar ice, catastrophic storms and declining biodiversity.
This video helps students understand that climate change is a global issue. I would use this video as a stimulus to explore the issue of climate change around the world. I would ask the pupils to then locate different countries around the world where climate change is happening, choose one particular country to research in pairs and then present their findings and compare.
This would enable the pupils to develop a deeper understanding about the impacts of climate change, and develop empathy towards those that may be more adversely affected by climate change. -
Assignment 3
Introducing climate change to primary school pupils can be a very rewarding experience. To do so, I would begin by using a mixture of visual storytelling and digital interactive activities.
I would start with short, captivating clips from the Home documentary that showcase the Earth’s natural beauty and highlight human impacts like deforestation and pollution. These visuals in my opinion, would help children to understand the importance of preserving nature and set the stage for discussions.
I would then engage the children in an interactive class discussion, asking questions like, “What changes did you notice in the video?” and “How do these changes affect animals and people?” to encourage critical thinking and empathy. This activity could be simplified by allowing the children to work in small mixed ability groupings.
I would then move on to trying to simplify the concept of The Paris Agreement by comparing it to a global “promise” that countries make to protect the planet. Discussing how we, too, can make promises to help, like reducing waste and conserving energy. I would encourage the children to work again in small groups to come up with ideas to how they could reduce their own waste and how we as a class could conserve energy.
The most important part of introducing climate change to children would be to incorporate activities such as planting trees within our school groups or developing a classroom/ school wide recycling project to empower students to take action. This not only helps solidify their understanding but also encourages personal responsibility and stewardship for the environment.By using these engaging methods, students can develop a foundational understanding of climate change and feel inspired to contribute positively to the planet.-
Hi David,
Thanks for your post. You make a great opening point about the rewarding nature of teaching such an important topic to learners. This is the biggest challenge we currently face, and it is vitally important that learners have an age-appropriate understanding of climate change.
Home is a great opening prompt, and by eliciting answers to the questions you outlined, learners will come to their own realization of our impact on the landscape and biodiversity.
I like how you plan to simplify the Paris Agreement to plain English, and translate that promise to what we can do, too. By putting the focus on actions like planting trees and projects, learners can take pride in what they achieve. By choosing native trees, they will best support local biodiversity too.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s “Home” is a beautiful and thought-provoking documentary on YouTube. The film shows amazing aerial views from over fifty countries, highlighting the Earth’s beauty and the impact humans have on it. Narrated by Glenn Close, “Home” takes us through the history of life on Earth and the balance that keeps it going. The documentary stresses the urgent need to protect our environment, pointing out problems like deforestation, climate change, and overconsumption. The visuals, paired with a moving soundtrack, create an engaging and educational experience. To introduce these climate change facts to pupils, I would start by showing selected clips from “Home” to capture their interest. Then, we would discuss the issues presented, encouraging students to reflect on how these problems affect their own lives and communities. Finally, I would guide them in brainstorming practical actions they can take to help protect the environment.
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The film “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is an amazing production that I had never seen before. There is so much learning to be taking from this video, it could take up a whole themed approach for a half term of work, the presentation of the beautiful earth and the tragic impact humans have had on it. In the senior classes I would break up the film into 15-20mins sessions to watch and study, and summarise with main facts. The Greta Thunberg’s TED talk is also very emotive , the children can create connections with her story and her misson and be inspired by her being so young when she started to speak out . After introducing these climate change facts to the class I would brainstorm way to spread the message, creating school posters with important facts, making a space on the school website to promote ways to help the planet, create a whole school competition to ignite excitement in the school.
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The film ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand in Module three really struck me. It is a great video which offers a visual representation of climate change here on Earth. When I am teaching the topic of ‘climate change’ to my class in the new school year, I would show the children part of this video to give them an idea of climate change. The video has various important and interesting facts which are very beneficial and interesting for children to learn.
We will also investigate climate change activists such as Greta Thunberg, by introducing Greta Thunberg, the children may be able to see the issue of climate change from a different perspective with somebody that they may be able to relate to. We would watch Greta Thunbergs TED Talk.
We would measure our carbon footprints as brainstorm ways in which we can reduce it. We would have a class discussion on how we can reduce our carbon footprint both in the classroom and at home.
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I thought the documentary “Home” was absolutely fantastic and a must watch for everyone. I was surprised to learn that it was produced in2009, thus making it fifteen years old. The director Yann Arthus Bertrand brought the viewer on a magical and enlightening journey from cities Shanghai to New York to Los Angeles, from The River Jordan to the Colorado river and from pole to pole. On the journey we are presented with amazing aerial footage of our earth, including agricultural land, mountains, rivers, oil fields, deserts and ice caps. In total the documentary showed footage from 54 countries.
The footage , coupled with an excellent and informative commentary shows us very clearly the effect human activity has had and is continuing to have on our environment. Our so called progress is depleting all the resources that nature provides. Humanity has “taken possession of every habitat and conquered swathes of territory like no other species before “.
It deals really effectively with how our desire to develop has completely depleted our world of its most precious and non renewable resources. Shanghai has built 3000 sky scrapers in 20 years !We see and hear some very frightening images and facts that we have no time to ignore anymore. As the film says it’s too late to be pessimistic! Our population has rocketed and our need for food and housing has never been greater. Our wealthiest have never been richer. Yet ,one sixth of our population are living in unsuitable or precarious housing and have no reliable access to adequate nutrition.
These pictures have provided us with many sobering and quite frightening images and scenarios that everyone should be made aware of.
The video would be an excellent resource in the classroom , particularly in the senior classes. I find the children are already very well informed , especially about the melting ice caps and the effect on animals. But this video moves away from the poles where the effects of green house gases are more visible and gives us a wider view of the damage our greed and desire to progress is causing. A must watch ! -
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I found the film “Home”to be striking and powerful in how it illustrates the interconnectedness of our global environmental issues. THe documanetary presents us with stunning aerial imagery and the planet’s beauty while also highlighting the extensive damage caused by everyday human activities. This clear narrative, paired with breathtaking visuals, makes “Home” an excellent tool for engaging children’s minds and allowing us as teachers to initiate classroom discussions on climate change.
I have lots of ideas for introducing this topic to my class. They enjoy creating digital KWL charts, which could be an effective starting point. I think a Kahoot or Google Forms quiz would help gauge their existing knowledge and could also be used for assessment at the end of the unit of learning. The children are already familiar with Greta Thunberg and her activism, so showing a video of her speech could be impactful. As noted by others, some children may feel anxious about these topics, so it’s important to maintain a positive and proactive approach and try to avoid any sense of overwhelm around the topic.
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I must say I really enjoyed the 2009 French documentary ‘Home’ for its global message, picturesque scenes and amazing cinematography. I hadn’t heard of it before but I’m glad now to have seen it thanks to this module. I really liked the aerial shots which made you think about the bigger picture; that we are all on this spinning ball in space and we all have a responsibility to take care of it.
The Greta Thunberg ‘Ted Talk’ was fascinating, she is so intelligent and articulate. It would be very beneficial to show this to Primary School as they could really relate to her.
I enjoyed the video ‘Ireland’s Climate Action Plan’ as it was short and concise with plenty of facts like:
1) By 2030 70% of all electricity generated must be from renewable sources
2) By 2030 there will be 950,000 electric vehicles on the road
3) By 2030 100,000 existing homes will be upgraded to a BER B2 ratingI would envisage introducing these climate change facts to my pupils by:
A) Encouraging the integration of drama into the lesson – can the children come up with short plays together to demonstrate techniques to protect the environment?
B) I would pause certain parts of each video to discuss the facts that are presented by asking How? Why? And What? Questions
C) Having shown my class the videos mentioned I would encourage them to form groups to complete a project called ‘Tackling Climate Change’. This could be done in a scrapbook, on a poster, or online (using a chromebook or laptop) -
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The video “HOME” was inspirational. There were some lovely shots in it that makes one wonder why we so under appreciate our amazing planet. The aerial shots were pretty cool and I think no matter what age, a young child or older adult would appreciate them.
Prior to showing the class the video ‘Home’, I would make four groups. Each group would get a topic, for example deforestation, ecosystems, over-fishing and pollution. Each group would pose a question and the pupils will endeavour to find the answer. They can present their work at the end of the lesson.
Making comparisons with information that was shown in the video can be achieved with integration. Using data handling skills to present the information as a graph can visually display the key information from the video. This would be good for project work and can be displayed for other classes to view also. -
Wow,my first impression of the Climate Aid 2020 video was that it would be a powerful attention grabber for my senior class to make them aware of the need ti do something about climate change, but I think it would actually be upsetting. It’s such a strong statement to show the impact we are having on our world.The Home Video is a stunning production with huge scope for a senior class.It made me think of things I had never considered especially the vegetable greenhouses of spain, the cattle farms without grass etc. There are beautiful images of the earth contrasting with the damage we cause.
I would definitely break it down into shorter sections and discuss what we see/ can learn etc in each part. I see links to art, drama, science(animal life)media studies, SPHE, Geography(agriculture), English- debating and dicsussion and beyond. I would look at the impact of agriculture and the oil industry, how we as humans are responsible for climate change and the damageto our planet.
Greta Thunberg- a great vide0 for children to hear a child talk about climate change and make it more realistic to them that they too can be responsible for change. Could we make our own video for our school to raise awareness like she did? Great scope for links to oral language, drama, SESE etc. A powerful video.
Finally I think my class would really enjoy the WWF carbon footprint calculator. -
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I found the video HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand very powerful and informative. I think that the way it is introduced is very effective. The audio saying “Listen to me….” grabs the listeners attention immediately. This paired with the stunning visual graphics keep the viewer enthralled throughout the 90 min video.
I actually found watching this video quiet emotional. It is very thought provoking and pushes the viewer to question what they already know on the topic of climate change.
It is clear that the visuals of this video are very effective but so also are the words that accompany those images. Some that really stood out for me were “It’s time to come together. What’s important is not what’s gone, but what remains” This could form the starting point for a lesson on what we can do going forward to tackle climate change.
“We all have the power to change, So what are we waiting for?” This is such a powerful message and one that lends itself to teaching students that we are all capable of making changes for the better and they are the future.
To introduce this to my class I would use a KWL chart and get the children to discuss their findings after they have watched the video.
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After watching the short documentary ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand the least I can say is that it is food for thought.It points out the flaws in our society and how easy it for one country to cast blame upon another while really it is an international issue which each nation should join together and unite to solve this worldwide issue. The documentary uses the tactic of shock to open our eyes to the ugly sides of climate change and really we must change. the fact that this documentary was posted 4 years ago and released in 2009 is shocking. In a5 years we have not even begun to stop this issue, in fact we’ve made it worse doing irreparable damage to out planet. Upon our return to school I will most definitely be showing this to my class as it is something that needs to be seen and something students need to be exposed to as it is their future this issue will affect and the issue of generations upon generations to come. The shocking visual concepts and infographics of this documentary would be I hope helpful in a classroom as it would allow the children to truly absorb the information in it . From the beginning where it showcases the beauty and rich history of our planet to its climax where it exposes its slippery downfall since human society formed 200,00p years ago. This documentary is truly a work of art .
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A key message that stood out for me from both Greta Thunberg’s TED talk and ‘Home’ is that we know what needs to happen, what we need to change but it’s our willingness to do so that is getting in the way of significant change. The point Greta made about people saying she should become a climate scientist and find the solution but the solution already exists. Unfortunately I think it summarises a big issue here in that most people want to slow down climate change, most people understand the risks and results if we don’t but people don’t want their lives to be inconvenienced to do so. When listening to Greta speak about how come this massive threat to human existence is here but we’re not taking radical action it made me think a lot about the COVID-19 pandemic, the world came to a stand still, every government brought in extreme measures to protect human lives and it makes me question is it just because it was threatening the lives of people who live now where as the threat from climate change is less imminent, the people who it will really affect won’t be able to stop it so it’s up to us to act now.
As a 6th class teacher I think there are definitely parts of the HOME video that I could share with the class, I know there are very real concerns about eco-anxiety and the impact that this has on children but at the same time I think we can’t completely sugar coat it as it is serious and does need action. I think decisions would have to be made on a class by class basis what the teacher deems appropriate. I also think consultation with parents is essential here a) so they can support their child if they’re feeling anxious or worried and b) we can implement changes in school as much as we like but with buy in from home too and support it would lead to far more beneficial change.
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Module 3 Assignment: Siobhan ni hiceadha
I found the video HOME very interesting indeed. It is quite shocking to see the effects and impact that our actions as humans have had on our beautiful planet. We are being urgently warned time and time again to take action in respect to this. Unfortunatly, while yes we are taking some action I feel more can be done. This is why it is so important that children are so aware of how our actions impact our planet.
Reducing our carbon footprint is so important, but we have to act as a collective here, – me not getting on a plane won`t really change things but if we all get more mindful of our footprint then this certainly will. Remember how obvious this was in Covid lockdown.
Using HOME facts to introduce this would be a very good resource. However I would be selective in clips that I would show the children, not to overwhelm them/ increase eco-anxiety.
I would brainstorm simple ideas in relation to water conservation / conserving energy/ reducing waste both in school and in the home with my class.
-using rainwater collected to water indoor plants
-don’t let the tap run while brushing teeth
-reuse water bottles/ lunch bags
-ensuring lights are off when no one is in the room/ tablets/ tv switched off when not in use
-close doors when heat is on
There are tonnes of simple ideas that would make a big impact to encourage and support sustainable practices.
I would also show the children excerpts from TED talk with Greta Thunburg, to highlight the fact that children also have a voice and should be heard in relation to our planet.-
Hi Siobhan,
Thanks for your post. The HOME video really is a stark and striking reminder of the beauty of our planet and the ways in which we are mistreating this finite resource we call home.
You make an important point about how this is not about one person’s actions; it is about a collective response. We all have a role to play, and educating and empowering the next generation to be part of this positive movement will help move the dial in the right direction.
I agree that we certainly dont want learners to be overwhelmed, and I think by being selective of the video segments you show and possibly even the use of a circle of control exercise, learners will see what is within their control to change.
Greta is a great role model. Closer to home, we also have young Irish climate activists who may be relatable too. Here is a link to an article about some: ‘A world with climate justice is a better world’: Meet the young Irish people fighting for the environment (irishexaminer.com)
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Greta Thunberg’s TEDx talk are powerful resources for teaching children about climate change. “HOME” presents a breathtaking visual journey that illustrates Earth’s beauty while highlighting the environmental destruction caused by human activity. Greta Thunberg’s TEDx talk complements this by emphasizing the urgency of climate action and empowering young people to take a stand.
To introduce these topics to primary school pupils, I would start by simplifying the key concepts. Using age-appropriate language, I would explain how our planet is like a big home that we share with animals, plants, and other people. I would use pictures and short clips from “HOME” to show both the beauty of nature and the damage we are causing. This visual approach helps children grasp the importance of protecting the environment.
Next, I would introduce Greta Thunberg as a role model, explaining that even young people can make a big difference. Through storytelling and group discussions, I would encourage pupils to think about small changes they can make in their daily lives to help the planet.
By combining visual learning, storytelling, and practical actions, I aim to inspire a sense of responsibility and hope in young learners, empowering them to be part of the solution.
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Module 3: The Climate Change Challenge
The beginning of this module highlighted the link between Maths and Science which is a very useful document as our Curriculum changes to STEM, rather than SESE and Maths as two separate subject areas.
The Climate Aid 2020 video is a great stimulus for discussion with senior classes on Climate Change. The image of earth in flames at the end hits home and I feel it is a powerful message.
Yanns’ video ‘Home’ is also a very powerful video highlighting the effects of human activity on Climate. An excellent stimulus for a discussion with my students. This video is quite long so might be an idea to watch it in half hour blocks.
I would aim to teach the children about these messages:
1. Recognize the Importance of the Climate Crisis for Our Planet: Understand the urgency and significance of the climate crisis and its potential impacts on ecosystems, weather patterns, and human societies.
1. Become More Familiar with the Key Points of the Paris Agreement: Learn about the main objectives and commitments outlined in the Paris Agreement, including efforts to limit global temperature rise and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This would need to explained clearly to the students.
2. Understand the Irish Government’s Climate Plan: Gain knowledge of the specific strategies and initiatives the Irish government is implementing to address climate change and reduce the nation’s carbon footprint.
3. Learn How to Calculate Your Carbon Footprint: Understand the process of calculating your personal or household carbon footprint to assess your impact on the environment and identify ways to reduce it.
Greta Thunberg comes up a lot in our class discussions, particularly around Climate Change and during International Women’s Day. It is great that so many students have heard of her and know what she fights for- in particular the school strike for climate change!
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The movie “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that underscores the urgent need to address climate change. Through breathtaking aerial footage from over fifty countries, the film highlights the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and the dramatic impact humans have had on the planet. It covers key issues such as deforestation, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources, emphasizing the unsustainable nature of current practices and the dire consequences if changes are not made. “Home” serves as a powerful call to action, urging viewers to adopt more sustainable lifestyles to preserve the planet for future generations.
To introduce these facts to children, I might start with simple questions like, “Have you ever wondered how cutting down trees affects animals?” and “What happens when we use too much plastic?” Using visuals from the movie, I can explain these concepts in a way that relates to their everyday experiences, making the importance of protecting our planet clear and relatable.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s visually striking documentary “Home” emphasizes how vital it is to confront climate change. The film emphasizes the profound impact that people have had on the world, as well as the connectivity of all species on Earth, through stunning aerial imagery shot in more than fifty countries. It discusses important topics including pollution, deforestation, and the loss of natural resources, highlighting how unsustainable existing practices are and the serious repercussions if no changes are done. “Home” makes a strong case for viewers to live more sustainably in order to protect the environment for coming generations.
I might begin by asking young kids basic questions such, “Have you ever wondered how cutting down trees affects animals?” to introduce them to these facts. & “What happens when we use too much plastic?” Using visuals from the movie, I can explain these concepts in a way that relates to their everyday experiences, making the importance of protecting our planet clear and relatable.
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The film HOME offers a breathtaking and poignant visual journey that emphasises the beauty of our planet and the urgent need to address climate change. Through stunning aerial footage and a compelling narrative, the film highlights the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and the impact of human activities on the environment. Other video clips in this module also play a crucial role in conveying the science and reality of climate change. By combining visual storytelling, interactive tools, project-based learning, and critical thinking activities, I can introduce climate change facts to students in an engaging, informative, and inspiring way. Films like HOME and other climate change videos are invaluable resources that can spark interest and motivate students to gain knowledge and take active roles in protecting the environment.
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The video ‘Home’ shows beautiful images of around the world. One statement that really struck me was how humanity is only 200,000 years old but we have changed the face of the world. In the beginning of the video we can see how when things were simpler and work was done by hand the earth flourished but then that drastically changes when we see the introduction of oil, coal and gas. The children I teach live in a rural area where many of their families work in agriculture. By showing them this video they can see how things were done years ago. While of course using machinery makes the work easier and completed quicker the children could maybe work together to come up with some small steps that could be taken where maybe they could complete even parts of some tasks without the use of fossil fuels.
The video of Greta Thunbergs TED talk would be a fantastic resource to show the children too as it gives them the opportunity to listen to one of their peers speaking in clear and concise language on the issue of climate change.
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Yann Arthus Bertrand’s videp ‘Home’ illustrates the ways in which human activity and the environment are interacting. It displays indicators of climate change, including melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and rising greenhouse gas emissions. It also emphasizes the depletion of natural resources including water, fossil fuels, and minerals, as well as the extinction of species. It encourages the application of sustainable practices and renewable energy sources.I would present these facts about climate change to the kids in a variety of ways.I would present these facts about climate change to the kids in a variety of ways. carrying out tests to show the effects of climate change. I would discover some interactive tales about the effects of climate change on kids around the globe. In addition to asking students to make drawings and posters illustrating the effects of climate change, I might assign a class project in which students must come up with ways to lessen their personal carbon footprint. I would also look for some kid-friendly internet games and quizzes.
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Yann Arthurs- Bertrand’s documentary style film ‘HOME’ is a must watch. It highlighted the devastating effects of climate change in our world. A number of statistics were provided such as half of the worlds forests have disappeared and that one billion people go hungry every day. I learned an immense amount of information from this movie, which have improved my knowledge of the topic.
If I had 5th or 6th class I would show them this video, I am conscious of eco-anxiety which was pointed out in this forum. My class might be too young to watch this film. I had 6th class 2 years ago and I know they would find this film very interesting. After showing the video I would ask for their opinions and what they have learned. I would then allow the children to work co-operatively and ask them to research a climate issue that was raised during this film. They would present their findings. Children would engage in hands on activities such as figuring out carbon footprints. The TED talk video of Greta Thunberg would also stimulate the children to research more. It is a vital topic and I believe the children would be extremely motivated to engage in.
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The combination of videos in this module serve to show children and people alike the sheer devastation and destruction that is being done to our planet every day. I was particularly taken by Greta thurnbergs TED Talk as she outlined her views about climate change. I think the children would relate to Greta as she is closer in age to them and also they would see how even someone as young as her can make such a meaningful global impact. HOME, the movie by Yanns Arthus Bertrand was very interesting. I wasn’t expecting to be as taken and engaged as I was. I was shocked by what he presented and it will definitely have a lasting impact on me. The Paris climate agreement is an important historical occasion for the children to be aware of. It is the most important political agreement of our generation in relation to climate change therefore I would explore this in the classroom, particularly focusing on the targets set out by Ireland and whether we have made progress on these or not.
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The documentary “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand focuses on important environmental and climate change-related topics. The movie focuses on the links that exist between all living things on Earth and how these relationships have been harmed by human activity. It draws attention to how pollution, overfishing, and deforestation affect ecosystems.
Children should be informed of the Paris Climate Agreement. Since it is the most significant political agreement of our generation on climate change, I would discuss it in the classroom, paying special attention to the goals Ireland established and whether or not we have achieved them. Greta Thunberg’s Ted talk is really captivating. The passion and emotion she holds for the topic is evident. I think students would respond well to someone who is closer to their age and take inspiration from her.
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The HOME video was a fascinating video to watch, highlighting how wonderful our planet is whilst be extremely effective in showing the impact human life is having on it. Teaching 4th class this year I do feel that it is a video suitable to show and feel that it would provide a lot of scope in for cross circular linkage in history, drama and visual. I do think that I would introduce the topic of climate change to my class by asking them to determine their carbon footprint, initially completing the task at home. I would then get children to think-pair-share their carbon footprint with their peers in the class and from this begin to discuss and brainstorm effective ways to help reduce their footprint. I would also show the children the TED talk Greta Thunberg video as I am sure most children are aware of this girl and I feel that it would be a great way to demonstrate to the children that you are never too young to have a positive impact on your plant- I feel this video would be very inspirational to the class.
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Hi Shauna,
Thanks for your post. HOME is a great watch, and as you said, it has considerable cross-curricular links with history and drama. I like your plan to explore learners’ carbon footprint and brainstorm ways to reduce this. As mentioned before, the circle of control can be nice to touch on here, as learners cannot change some aspects of this result.
Greta is a great role model for all, young and old, and her clear-cut approach to this issue is what is desperately needed to move the dial in the right direction. She has some great books for young people, too, which could make a welcome addition to the class library, like Greta’s Story: The Schoolgirl Who Went on Strike to Save the Planet.
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The film HOME is a truly breathtaking vidoe, showing the beauty of nature from all parts of the world. I think an important take from this video is observing how we as humans need to live in respect of the earth and to work with the land in our own environments. Eating local produce, allowing nature to grow as it was intended and not to harm any native animals. The film is blunt in it’s highlighting of what our actions are doing to the climate and the world. I would use the lesson as a follow up lesson after first discussing and allowing the children to explore the changes we need to make in the world. I would then use this video to introduce and allow for conversation around our actions in the world and the reality of what is happening. I think this film is more suited to an older class as younger children may find it distressing.
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I think the video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Betrand could be used as an effective tool to teach about climate change. It could act as a great stimulus for classroom discussion based on environmental issues and how we can sustain life on planet earth.
The video is powerful in explaining how human activity is affecting planet earth through deforestation, the over use of natural resources and the impact on animal life. I think this film could be viewed in segments particularly with younger classes and follow up activities could be provided after each segment. I think it would also work as an excellent stimulus for a class project on how we can reduce our carbon footprint and this in turn could link in with the Green Schools Committee and the work that is already being done in school to promote environmental awareness. This can also promote a deeper understanding of the importance of caring for the environment and how small changes can go a long way to achieving this. I also like how this topic/video can be linked to many different subjects and provides scope to teachers to allow children to explore the topic in their own way making it personal to them.
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Having watched the Video “Home” I feel it would be more appropriate for secondary school level. Its much too detailed and long for primary aged children.
I think the video Climate Aid with David Attenbouragh is more appropriate and not too long. It’s very effective and touches an all the topics in a coherent manner with catchy music.
In my teaching of SESE, Climate, I always use National Geographic, BBC, David Attenbouragh videos to explain various Climate/science animal topics to my children.
I think Art is a good way for children to express their ideas and they could design posters and projects for example ” Earth Day” or “Climate Change”. Children could display their work, or do PowerPoint presentations. I’ve done this with 4th class.
Also children could watch clips on YouTube from the G7 talks with world leaders. I’ve already shown various clips of this and of Climate activist Greta Thunberg to my children
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Hi Laura
I agree that the film Home is too long and detailed to show in its entirety to primary school children. Some people have suggested using clips from the movie when covering particular topics which can be effective. The main target audience for this film should be adults as we are the ones making decisions that affect children. It is very important that all teachers and educators understand the realities of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss so that we can help children to understand at an age appropriate level. As you said there are lots of good shorter videos that are very good to show to children to get across some of the points that are illustrated in Home. Combining these video clips and discussion around them with practical activities such as ESERO’s Earth Under the Lid and positive action around saving energy, planting trees or other positive actions.
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I agree Una that the film Home though informative is not effective as a resource due to the language used .Definitely believe that certain aspects of the film coupled with age appropriate terminology could be used perhaps in a powerpoint and then a kahoot quiz to assess the knowledge of the students
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I really enjoyed the video Home and the narrator was very good. The video really shows the global scale of climate change and how it impacts our biodiversity. It also illustrates the influence humans have had since the industrial revolution and that our planet not only belongs to us but everyone. The only thing about the video is the length of it and pupils would find it hard to sit and watch it in 1 sitting. I would use it over a week and get pupils to watch while eating their lunches.
I love Greta’s Thunberg’s speech about the school strike for climate change. I would definitely show this to my pupils and I would show them this when doing persuasive writing and debate. She uses lots of emotive language and provides a lot of facts which really pulls on the heart strings on the audience.
Ireland’s climate action plan 2019 and video is very good and gives us a snapshot of the goals we have. This video is 5 years old and I would ask pupils investigate whether we are on course to achieving these targets.
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I really like the first video on the Climate Aid 2020 introduced by David Attenborough – I would use an ‘I notice, I wonder’ structure with this video. I would have the children watch it twice and write two statements minimum and then share this with the class. It is a useful stimulus as it is so visual and the images are vivid and thought provoking.
Personally I found the ‘Home’ video very interesting and informative. I found the statistics shocking in relation to the number of people still living how we live 6000 years ago.
However I would use clips from this in the classroom as I found it hard to watch the entire thing in one sitting myself and I would consider it too long for the classroom. I do think if I spent more time re-watching I could narrow down excerpts and you could plan very interesting units around different segments.
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In the documentary Home we see how the degradation of the planet, mainly by the presence of humans and how we have upset the natural balance before our time on it. It is about harmony and how we should strive for that. It shows our journey from having harmonious relationships with nature to exploiting oil wells and using any natural resources we have for financial gain and mass production just for the sake of rampant consumerism not necessarily for the benefit of humans either. It is a great documentary and I would use it in parts for older classes to show children how we are where we are now.
In the Irish Times feature, the weight of Thunburgs and Attenboroughs words are stark contrast to the level or action and response by political leaders at the time of writing. The initiation of the one day strikes by school children globally while undermined by the Australian Resource Minister Canavan, sent a strong message to worlds leaders and that is in sole thanks to Thunbergs activism. Her message is clear; there is no Plan B. Her measured Ted Talk, plainly delivered, speaks to the heart of economic leaders inaction. By continuing to unearth fossil fuels, 100 million lucrative barrels of oil per day, displays the industry reluctance to seek alternatives. Obviously, she really resonates with children and they would have good discussions after viewing her talk and could prepare climate action posters as part of SESE lessons or whole school themed approach.
In the Climate Aid 2020 video images of animals struggling to wildfires, litter on beaches and sea pollution, forest wildfires and man struggling to contend with them, engage an emotional response in those that want to hear the message. Children can do so through art, particularly senior classes.
The Climate Footprint Quiz is a great starting point that raises questions for me too. I have areas that can be improved upon, particularly in the home, my highest percentage at 44%. By switching energy providers that adhere to renewable energy sources, using smart technology or lowering the temperature of the wash cycle, can all go some way to reducing this figure. I think children could take this quiz and involve parents to support them in addressing concerns arising for them as a family.
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I agree with Cian and Evan in exploring the targets for Ireland under the Paris Agreement. Some Nationwide programmes on RTE have been very informative on how farmers are changing they way they farm to align with these goals and they children could watch these clips also as a stimulus for the lesson.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s documentary film “Home” is a very striking documentary. It is beautifully shoot using mostly aerial shots of the worlds various urban and rural landscapes. The documentary illustrates how all living things are interconnected and how issues with one specifies/ecosystem affects another. This in turn highlights how none of us can hide from climate change and how we all have a part to play. The documentary is also critical of fossil fuels and many industries who contribute to climate change. I don’t think I would use this documentary in its entirety in my class as I believe it could be a bit too much. I would however use snippets to illustrate the point that all living beings, plants, animals etc.. are interconnected and how some human actions have disrupted other species/ecosystems.
I would use the Greta Thunberg Ted Talk to illustrate to children that they have the ability to make a positive change in the world with regards climate change. I would also use this video to highlight gently that if they feel any anxiety around climate change that taking action and making positive changes can help with this.
Following on from this I would ask my class to work in groups to research and create a green action plan for our school. This would include improvements and ideas that we could implement to be more green day to day. They would then make posters to highlight these changes and they would be put up around the school.
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Hi Saoirse
I like your point about eco anxiety. Greta Thunberg is a good example of how young people can take action to help combat their own fears around climate change. It can be my making their voices heard and raising awareness like Greta Thunberg and all of the young people involved in campaigning or it can be through positive actions like planting trees in school, growing some of their own food, reducing energy use or cutting out waste. Your idea of the green action plan is a good one but ensure that if you are creating posters that they are just reminders and are accompanied by concrete measurable actions and that teachers are modelling positive change through actions such as turning off whiteboards when not in use, opening blinds to reduce the use of artificial light, and using recycled materials for art.
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The film HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand is visually stunning and really hits home about how everything on Earth is connected and how much human activity impacts the environment. It covers big issues like climate change, deforestation, overfishing, and pollution, making it a powerful tool for teaching. The other video clips in the module break down these topics into simpler bits, which is great for helping younger students understand.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I’d start by showing a few clips from HOME and the other videos to get them interested and emotionally engaged. The way the film tells its story through visuals can really help students grasp how serious these issues are. After watching, I’d lead a discussion to let the students share their thoughts and feelings. I’d also bring in some hands-on activities, like simulations or experiments, so they can connect what they’ve seen to real-life situations. By mixing visual storytelling with practical learning, I hope to help them understand the importance of these issues and get them thinking about what they can do to make a difference.
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Hi Carmel, I have taught in SET for a long time now and taught children with anxiety before. I also teach kids yoga and mindfulness so it has been of major interest to me since starting this wonderful and informative course how to get the message across without inducing any fear/anxiety and I think focusing on what IS currently being done by contacting certain companies/agencies who are doing something is SO important. I also think that actively implementing positive changes in school and at home is so important. It is a tricky one, but one that is at the fore of my thinking and Im glad to see so many others saying the same. Rachel
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The video HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a remarkable resource that I’m surprised I haven’t come across before. The film’s stunning photography and deep exploration of the earth’s origins and interconnected systems make it a captivating watch, perfect for showing during indoor lunch breaks on rainy days. The visuals are mesmerizing, and the film offers rich content that can be woven into various areas of the curriculum.
In SESE (Social, Environmental, and Scientific Education), the themes discussed in the video, such as the earth’s formation, natural phenomena like waterfalls, and the intricate bonds between species, provide excellent material for in-depth exploration. These topics can also inspire art lessons, where students can create projects based on Yann Arthus Bertrand’s breathtaking photography, using the film’s imagery as a springboard for their creativity. Additionally, the evocative music used throughout the video can serve as a basis for music lessons, where students can analyze how music is used to convey emotion and enhance storytelling.
The central message of the video—that everything in life is interconnected—can be effectively linked to SPHE (Social, Personal, and Health Education) lessons. Here, we can explore the concept of humans as an integral part of nature, rather than separate from it. This theme could lead to discussions about our role in the environment and the impact of our actions on the planet.
To extend the learning experience, I would encourage students to undertake individual projects based on the film. Each student could choose a topic that resonates with them, whether it’s exploring the mysteries of volcanoes, the role of algae in the ecosystem, or the gases in our atmosphere. These projects could be worked on at home and shared with the class, fostering a deeper personal connection to the material.
In English classes, I would use statements from the movie, such as “The earth is a miracle, life is a mystery,” as prompts for creative writing. These prompts could inspire students to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings about the planet, encouraging informed and imaginative expression.
It’s also important to address eco-anxiety, especially among young learners, by focusing on the positive steps being taken to address environmental challenges. As Carmel Wright pointed out, there is a lot happening here in Ireland, from solar panels and offshore wind farms to food waste recycling and the new bottle scheme. These initiatives could be explored further through case studies, helping students understand the practical efforts being made to protect our planet and inspiring them to think about how they can contribute.
Incorporating HOME into the classroom offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to learning, allowing students to explore the interconnectedness of life on Earth across various subjects while also fostering creativity, critical thinking, and environmental awareness. Rachel
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I completely agree that the film’s visual power and rich content offer endless possibilities for exploration.
I particularly like your suggestion of using the film to address eco-anxiety. It’s crucial to balance the realities of climate change with positive actions and solutions. Focusing on Ireland’s efforts to combat climate change is a fantastic way to empower students and show them that they can make a difference.
I also think it would be valuable to explore the concept of sustainable living in more depth. Perhaps we could invite a local environmental expert to speak to the class about practical steps we can take in our daily lives to reduce our carbon footprint.
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I loved Orlas honesty above on her carbon footprint. I think taking the test at home with their families will help children to understand which factors are most important to change and that even making one change (at a time) is super helpful. It is a great link and starting point that can be revisited each term to see changes that have been made.
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I enjoyed the video HOME by Yann Arthur Bertrand. I found the visuals to be spectacular and the various clips from around the world to be so interesting. While it can be quite pessimistic viewing at times due to the messaging, it was reassuring to see what humanity has done to slow down climate change and what can be done to help further. I would be conscious of this as children can be anxious when discussing these topics. I would break the video up into sections with my class and watch it over a number of weeks so that it is easier for the children to understand and we can really focus in on the information Bertrand’s film provides. It offers opportunities for talk and discussion around political borders and the earth’s ecosystem which does not have any borders. It is suitable for older classes.
Greta Thumberg’s TED Talk is a powerful example of how young people can take action and provides an opportunity to compare and contrast the climate crisis with what governments are doing, both abroad and closer to home.
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I found the video ‘Home’ very moving. The drone footage and music really added to the emotion of the whole thing. I think what struck me the most is that in terms of time our existence on earth is so insignificant yet we have had such a detrimental effect on this planet. It also amazed me to learn that over 1 billion people still like as humans did 6,000 years ago. These people live in a way that barely if even has any negative impact on the planet. Yet these are often the most vulnerable to climate change. We have been taping into the ground for our energy for hundreds of years now, fossil fuels and many other resources are running out rapidly. Yet the wealth, power and greed of a few are controlling or at least influencing our response to this. The solution is staring us in the face : get our energy from the sun!!We have the science, technology and knowledge for this but not the will due to greed. I found the drone images of quarries very upsetting. I also was struck by the chemicals being pumped into the atmosphere by industry. I am also very proud of Irish farmers after watching this , we farm in such a sustainable way compared to the USA, the 2 systems are literally worlds apart. It is hard to know how I would use this in the classroom, perhaps I would show parts of it to show what a beautiful planet we have and that we must protect it.
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Home was an eye-opening experience. The film’s stark portrayal of our planet’s transformation was a powerful wake-up call. It’s hard to shake the images of melting glaciers and encroaching deserts.
I feel strongly about sparking a similar awareness in my students. I envision starting with local environmental issues, perhaps exploring the impact of plastic pollution on our local waterways. From there, we can delve into the larger global picture. I believe hands-on activities, like nature walks and community clean-ups, will be crucial in fostering a connection to the natural world.
Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk was inspirational. Her unwavering determination to address the climate crisis is truly remarkable. Her ability to communicate complex scientific information in such a clear and compelling way is a gift. I have no doubt that classes watching this video would inspire a similar sense of urgency and purpose.
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I enjoyed the video “Home,”. The video does a great job of highlights climate change and its impact on biodiversity. It showcases that our planet belongs to everyone, not just us. I would show the video to the class over 2-3 lessons with discussions in-between.
Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2019 are very effective, offering a snapshot of the goals we’ve set. Since the video is five years old, I would ask pupils to investigate whether we are on track to meet these targets.
Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk was incredibly inspiring. She has a unique talent for conveying complex scientific concepts in a clear and persuasive manner. I think this video would greatly benefit, motivate and children to understand the urgency of the matter.
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I think your suggestion about assessing the target goals in Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2019 would be a fantastic hands on approach for children to connect with this issues we are facing in the world. It would allow them to come up with goals of their own and you could create a whole school approach to tackle climate change linking with Green Schools.
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What a stunning piece of cinematogrpahy.The images are so powerful however I amnot sure the video could be used as a result due to the terminology used however a picture tells a thousand words and some of the imagery here would be very beneficial.
Great Thunbergs Ted talk is just as effective as there are many people tha tcan relate to her.She can narrate the story in w way that is so powerful and thought provking providing an inspiration to those who also suffer from aspergers ODD and selective Mutism.
Some of the images may be upsetting and there are people out there who are genuinely anxious about the future and therefore there needs to be adequate resources available in case of any issues that may arise from watching the video,
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All the videos shown in this module were captivating and showed beauty of planet earth. The video ‘Home’ does an excellent job of highlighting climate change and its impact on the planet and different ecosystems around the world. I think it would be important to ease into this topic as it could create some anxiety with younger students about the planet so it is very important to teach this using a positive approach. I think using Greta Thunerg’s TED talk is a great way to convey such powerful topic. This video could be linked to other areas of the curriculum such as persuasive writing and this video could be used to identify features of persuasive writing as well as teaching children about the urgency of the matter.
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“Home” is not just a film; it is a call to action. Yann Arthus-Bertrand aims to inspire viewers to reconsider their relationship with the planet and to take steps toward preserving the Earth for future generations. The documentary underscores the idea that while humans have caused significant harm to the environment, there is still hope if we act collectively and responsibly.
In summary, “Home” is a powerful and visually captivating documentary that brings attention to the critical state of our planet. Through stunning aerial footage and a heartfelt message, it urges viewers to recognize the beauty of Earth and the importance of protecting it. I honestly believe by showing this amazing documentary to our children it could make a lasting impression for future generations. The documentary really emphasises that we have to act now and act in unison. The youth of today are already becoming more environmentally conscious thanks in no small part to initiatives such as the Green Flag initiative. I do believe that watching this video will inspire our youth to canvass their parents to act more environmentally friendly. -
I found all the videos in this module to be very powerful. These are vital tools in helping children understand how important it is that we all do our bit for climate change. I would start with an introductory discussion that explains the basic concepts of climate change and its human causes. The Paxi video on greenhouse gases visually demonstrates the science behind climate change in a clear and effective manner. Then I would show the class the documentary HOME. This is a stunning piece of work that showcases the earth and all its beauty. This contrasts heavily with the unfortunate footage of the impact of human activity that can be seen all over the world. Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk and the Climate change 2020 video are also very impactful. I would conclude with an activity to discuss all the positive changes we are all making and perhaps make a class pact to improve our carbon footprint as a class and as a school.
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Your approach Susan to using these videos as educational tools is very good. By starting with a discussion on the basics of climate change and gradually introducing more complex ideas through visuals like the Paxi video and the HOME documentary, you’re ensuring that students not only understand the science but also feel the emotional impact of the issue. The inclusion of Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk and the 2020 climate change video further deepens this connection by showing real-world examples of activism and the current state of our planet.
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I think HOME’s allows the viewer to understand that the Earth is our home and it is our individual responsibility to look after our planet we live on. However it can be quite intense and is probably not suitable for children to view. I think this may be the problem with understanding and teaching lessons about Climate Change. There is irrefutable evidence that the Earth is warming however there seems to be a fear aspect that if nothing is done now then there will be no Earth in years to come! I think it is important for children to have a broader understanding of the damage that Climate change can have but also the important steps they can take to help. I would probably show a video like the Paxi Video as a starter and then discuss the various items raised during the video. For example, a lesson about the Greenhouse Effect etc.
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Hi Cillian
Welcome to the course and thank you for sharing your thoughts on the video. While the video may not be suitable for your class you could choose aspects of the video to encourage discussion and critical thinking in the class when they have a good understanding of the concept of climate change. I do agree that there can be a level of anxiety among some children regarding climate change and it is important to promote positive actions, even the smallest of steps, that we all can take.
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Like many of the participants in this course, I feel the visual effects of HOME are stunning and the overall message is incredibly powerful. However, the video is quite sensationalist, and a more balanced approach is needed when teaching this to children. I have viewed different children’s videos on climate change and this is a simple, child friendly video (from Nasa) explaining the greenhouse effect – What Is the Greenhouse Effect? (youtube.com). The students can be asked the following questions..
What’s the difference between weather and climate? Look outside your window. Is it hot and sunny? Is it cloudy and rainy? Is there snow on the ground? When you look out the window, you’re seeing what the weather is like today.
Another nice educational video about the weather Blippi Learns About The Weather! Educational Videos For Kids (youtube.com). Blippi is very child friendly and easily relatable particularly to younger children. -
The video documentary ‘Home’ is a very powerful movie with some stunning aerial footage of the Earth. It demonstrates the devastating impact of human activities on our planet. It was an eye-opening watch. The other video clips introduced in this module, particularly Greta Thunberg’s TED talk really hit home about the urgency for change. My class of 2nd class may be a little bit too young to show some of the footage to them so I would introduce these facts to them myself in an age appropriate way for them. I would begin by showing them pictures of the beautiful natural features of the Earth and talking about how it is our home and how we need to look after it. I would then focus more on the things that we can do to look after it rather than the consequences of what could happen, just because of their age. I think that this could be covered in 3rd class and upwards.
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I would introduce climate change facts through the means of these videos in a gentle and positive manner and focus on all that we are doing and can do, without scaring or evoking fear in the children. Children are highly sensitive and could worry greatly about climate change, especially as some children might not be able to fully comprehend certain aspects of climate change that could be presented to them from the videos so I would be careful as to what clips I would choose to show them and ensure that everything they would be exposed to was fully comprehended and give them the chance to explore the topics fully. I found the videos in this module highly effective and thought provoking, however there was a lot of information to absorb and the ‘Home’ video was vast and contained a multitude of information. It would be of utmost importance to facilitate a way in which the class understand the importance of looking after and minding the world we live in without evoking a huge fear or anxiety in them, it really would not be fair for them to have to endure eco-anxiety. Therefore, focusing on the positives and all that we are doing in our school community, at home, in our local community and the wider community and encouraging them to brainstorm more ideas of how to keep our world a beautiful place and to mind the world we live in would be a lot healthier than evoking fear in them and causing worry and panic. It is important to realise that not just one individual is responsible for combating climate change but when people work together it is highly effective and so powerful. Everything needs to be done in moderation. Greta Thunberg is an admirable young lady and is extremely passionate in what she does, it is fabulous to see how she cares so much about combating global warming but on the other hand at times she can come across as being somewhat extreme and perhaps a little overwhelming, which might not be the most healthy way of approaching things (but each to their own). I think it is important to encourage children to focus on their duty and responsibility as a citizen and how their actions as an individual and also when combined with the actions of the communities they belong to can be highly highly valuable, effective and positive. Many of the images in the video ‘Home’ are utterly stunning and extremely beautiful and it is of utmost importance for children to realise that the small little changes we make can help to keep our world so beautiful.
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I enjoyed the video “Home” and can use many of these facts to support my teaching of climate change. The images shown are very powerful and would be a great visual to start a class discussion. I would use this video in small parts in order to be able to discuss the new terminology as some of the images may cause anxiety for some of the children. I think the use of Greta Thunerg’s TED talk is a fantastic way to show such a powerful subject. This video could also be linked to other areas of the curriculum such as literacy through persuasive writing or report writing and through different drama activities. We could then have a class discussion and explore questions such as What’s the difference between weather and climate? When you look out the window, you’re seeing what the weather is like today.
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I found this video very hard to watch and I wouldn’t feel comfortable showing it to a class without having spoken to parents first. I would be more incline to share David Attenborough’s movie on climate change as it is delivered with a more positive message. Following on from covid we are seeing heightened anxiety in children and this particularly video may bring about eco anxiety. Children are becoming more aware of climate change and are wanting change but for me as an educator, I will not be using this video as a tool but instead I will use the Nose in the Sky resources.
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The video Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful visual representation of the impact of climate change on our planet. It has stunning imagery, along with interesting facts, which effectively highlight the urgency of addressing environmental issues. When introducing these climate change facts to my pupils, I would approach the topic with sensitivity, aware of the potential anxiety it may cause, especially in younger students. After watching Gretta’s Ted Talk, you can’t hep but feel anxious about doing something productive in terms of the environment as she speaks in such a matter of fact way and also made reference to what her life would be like at the age of 75. I found her talk particularly inspiring and may be inspiring to students in my 5th class given her age.
When teaching about climate change, I will ensure a balanced perspective, I would start by discussing the importance of understanding climate change while emphasizing the positive steps being taken, particularly in Ireland. For example, I would highlight Ireland’s progress in renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, and initiatives like reforestation and the promotion of sustainable agriculture. By focusing on these positive actions, I aim to empower students, showing them that while climate change is a serious issue, they are part of a community actively working toward solutions. This approach not only educates but also inspires hope and a sense of agency.
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I found the film Home very engaging. It effectively highlights how climate change is a global issue, connected across countries rather than being the responsibility of any one nation. This is why it is an extremely difficult issue to tackle as many countries are not singing off the same hymn sheet. The documentary does an excellent job of illustrating the immense strain humanity has placed on the planet, in addition to the natural pressures that have occurred over time. I would definitely use it as a resource to introduce climate change concepts to my students, though I would be careful to emphasize some of the more hopeful aspects. There is stunning beauty in the video and this imagery can be a powerful tool in discussions about the positive actions we can take to preserve our planet’s splendour. Incorporating hands-on activities, such as mapping carbon footprints or exploring local ecosystems, would help students understand the global impact of their actions. This approach not only informs but also inspires pupils to take meaningful steps toward environmental stewardship.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s film “HOME” is a potent documentary that eloquently depicts the effects of human activity on the environment. It excellently shows how the issue of climate change does not fall at the feet of one country but it is an issue that is a global issue. It is an issue that involves clear communication and commitment across this world which is extremely difficult. This documentary was very touching in the sense that the viewer could visually see how we as humans are harming the earth.
When teaching about climate change I think it is very important to explore all aspects and perspectives, this allows for cross-curricular teaching, for example having debates or discussions about serious issues such as the Paris Agreement. Using visual aids such as the useful videos in the module helps children visually see the changes in the earth. Incorporating stories and storytelling would also work well with the younger ages so children can see how animals and people are affected by climate change, emphasising empathy and understanding. Using hands-on activities like explore in the other modules such as the thermometers will help the children further their understanding. Finally, I think it’s important that children engage in discussions on how they can help. This will foster critical thinking and allow for the children to become agents of their own actions.
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Hi Ciara
I agree that a mixture of different types of activities and a cross curricular approach is important when dealing with Climate Change. It is not something that should be done as a one off video or discussion but after using video clips, discussions, debates, stories and hands on activities such as recording the weather or modelling the greenhouse effect, the solutions should then be incorporated into daily school life and highlighted. When growing vegetables in the school garden, you can talk about how you are saving energy by reducing food miles and food packaging. You might get the class involved in planting trees or reducing mowing and talk about how trees and plants absorb Carbon Dioxide. When doing art or engineering projects you can re-use waste materials instead of buying specific craft materials and discuss waste reduction. You can have creative writing projects based around imagining a better future.
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Home is a very powerful documentary. It show cases our Earth and how beautiful it is whilst also showing the massive impact Climate change has had on our magnificent planet. It also clearly shows that the responsibility of Climate Change and it’s huge impact on the Earth does not soley fall at the feet of one country but that it is up to each and every country and us as individuals to do our bit in order to make long lasting change.
When teaching about Climate change I think this would be an amazing introduction to a lesson or a great resource to use as part of an English writing lesson or as part of a debating lesson. I would however be very mindful that it is a hard watch at times and would be more suitable for middle to senior classes. I would also be very careful to also focus on the positives and how we can all play our part.
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Home is a very powerful documentary which I believe would really hit home with the children about human activity having an impact on our environment. It emphasises how living a more sustainable life can have a huge positive effect on our planet. I would like to link this video with a project I carried out last year and plan to carry out again this year. It is on living a more sustainable life. We took our local town and sketched it and made our town in 3d using recycled materials. We then researched how to live a more sustainable life. We then added those elements to our sketches and 3d structures. The children then also did a whole class multiplayer project building their sustainable version of our town in Minecraft. This video would be great to watch during the research phase of our project.
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Hi Brona
I love your idea of the project on a more sustainable town. It is lovely to think about Climate Change from a solutions point of view and to involve the children in projects that imagine how we could live more in harmony with our planet. It is great too, that you created the physical model as well as the minecraft version as both have their merits and working on both would allow the children to invest more in the thought process around what features they were adding to their town. If you were to use the film “Home” as part of the project, I would suggest not using the whole film, but picking those parts that focus on solutions and showing those clips to the children as inspiration during the planning phase of their sustainable town project.
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“Home” is a powerful documentary directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand that offers a visual narrative of our planet’s beauty and the challenges it faces due to human activity. “Home” serves as a wake-up call regarding environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. The film effectively combines breathtaking visuals with a poignant message about the urgent need for conservation and sustainable development. The film encourages audiences to reflect on their own impact on the planet and suggests that collective action is necessary to safeguard our future. It highlights how we are all linked on this planet and how we rely on eachother so that ecosystems can survive. I do think as others have said I would pick and choose how much or what parts of the film to show the children. We need to encourage them without frightening them.
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I thought the film HOME is visually stunning and highlights the beauty of our planet and the challenges it faces due to climate change. When introducing the climate change facts to my pupils I would start by discussing the imagery and emotional impact of the movie to engage their interest. I would then delve into the key climate change facts such as the impact of deforestation, carbon emissions and biodiversity loss depicted in the film. By discussing and connecting these facts to real world examples and the film’s amazing visuals pupils can grasp the urgency of environmental issues that we face today. Having discussions in the classroom and showing solutions will empower pupils to take action and help them understand the importance of protecting our planet.
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning yet sobering film that captures the fragility of our planet. When introducing these climate change facts to pupils, I’d start by showing select clips from “HOME” to visually engage them. I’d follow this with a discussion on how human actions, like deforestation and fossil fuel use, directly affect the environment they just saw. I’d emphasize that climate change isn’t just a distant issue—it’s happening now, affecting everyone, including them. Encouraging students to think about small, actionable steps they can take, like recycling or conserving energy, would make the issue more relatable and empowering.
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The documentary Home provides a clear insight into climate change and how humans continue to influence it all over the world. The visual footage of 54 countries displays the pressure humanity is placing on the world. The most striking for aspect of it for me is the large numbers of people that are suffering in a modern world and world leaders continue to allow it happen. The figures provided towards the end give a clear picture of the severe consequences and problems that face so many people throughout the world. Its horrifying to see people without food, clean water, adequate aid and refugee numbers growing. The cost of our actions is so severe. This is where I would like to focus in on in school. I believe it is important to show and talk about with the kids from a young age to help them understand the problems and hope that they will make better decisions as they move through life. They will go on to make good environmental decisions and influences around them to all to do so. Ireland’s climate change video gives a clear indication of the plan for climate change action, it will be interesting to see in time how successful it will be.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s documentary “HOME” is a visually stunning and compelling exploration of Earth’s beauty and the environmental challenges it faces due to climate change. The film powerfully conveys the interconnections between humans and the planet, highlighting the delicate balance required to sustain life. Its impactful imagery and narration make complex climate issues accessible, driving home the urgency of environmental stewardship.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would start with a guided viewing of selected clips from “HOME.” This would allow students to visually connect with the issues before delving into the science behind them. I would follow up with a class discussion, encouraging students to share their thoughts and emotions evoked by the film. This could lead into a research project where students investigate specific climate change impacts highlighted in the documentary, such as deforestation, water scarcity, or carbon emissions.
To make the learning more interactive, I would incorporate activities like creating visual presentations or short documentaries inspired by “HOME,” where students document local environmental issues. Additionally, I would invite a local guest speaker to deepen students’ understanding of local environmental issues. By connecting the film’s global message to local actions, students can see how they can contribute to climate solutions.
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After watching the HOME video, I learned that while life on Earth has existed for nearly 4 billion years, humans have only been around for 200,000 years, yet our recent activities, like burning fossil fuels, have significantly impacted the planet. To teach students about climate change, I’d start with a simple discussion using visual aids to explain key concepts and show how rising temperatures correlate with increased greenhouse gas emissions. Short videos like the Paxi video can make the science behind climate change more accessible. For hands-on learning, I’d use activities like demonstrating the greenhouse effect with jars, thermometers, and colored water to represent gases trapping heat. A role-playing game where students act as different energy sources could illustrate the impact on Earth’s temperature. To make the issue more relatable, I’d discuss local climate changes, share global stories, and encourage actions like reducing waste and conserving energy. These activities would help students understand and engage with climate change in a meaningful way.
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I would begin by giving a brief explanation of climate change, emphasising how human activity is accelerating it and ask the pupils how they have a role to play in this. When children of all ages are asked to self-reflect it hits home as they are naturally egotistic anyway. I’d ask them to watch this video and not how humanity has a detrimental impact on climate change. I’d ask them to take not of how our actions personally negatively influence the world.
I would ask the children to scan the video for important details while it is being played and maybe encourage them to make a mind map of what stands out to them. After that, we’d break into groups in order to discover on a whole the effect we have and then go over the key issues again as a class. Stress the significance of being aware of climate change and taking appropriate action, such as cutting back on waste or energy use, reducing the use of fossil fuels in the home, reduce food shortage etc.
I’d then ask probably divide the class intro groups and set tasks, one group to make a conscious effort to reduce water wastage, one to reduce their carbon footprint and conserve energy. I’d ask them to try it for a week and then rotate the tasks, this would surely have a positive impact on the pupils effort and their families also. The aim of this would be to encourage better choices and decisions in their daily lives.
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Hi Shonagh
As you have said, it is important to tie Climate Change in with our own actions and see how we can have an impact, but it is also important not to make children feel that they are to blame for a problem that was created by adults: both ourselves and previous generations. I’m not sure which of the videos from this module you are referring to when you talk about making notes and analysing the main points, but I wouldn’t suggest doing this with “Home” as it it too long and probably too much for most primary school children. You could, as some teachers have suggested use shorter clips from the film to aid discussion in the classroom. Your idea of setting a challenge to the children to save water or save energy at home is a good idea but it would have to be introduced the right way and would be best done after doing a similar challenge in school with the teacher leading by example in actions like only turning on the whiteboard when it is being used and opening up classroom blinds to make use of natural daylight instead of artificial light when possible in the classroom.
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The video ‘HOME’ was a very powerful video which clearly shows the effects human are having on the planet. This video could be used as a very important resource to help promote children’s interest in climate change and the devastating affects of it. I would play the video for the children and then I would get the children to discuss the video, introduce a debate, assign a project, quiz and art work.
I also think that the TED Talk video from Greta Thunberg is very inspiring where young people may get involved in the worrying concerns of climate change.
I would ask the children with help and support from the green school committee to promote recycling, encourage smart sustainable living through our everyday habits and shopping. I would also encourage to plant more trees. It is so important to instil a positive attitude for the environment in the next generation and for them to appreciate the beauty in the word around them. By doing this positively, they may have a huge impact on the future planet. -
The film Home was very enjoyable to watch. The imagery was amazing and really made you consider the role of each human in the fight against climate change. For me the common theme that shone through was the interconnectedness of the human race. The choices of one affect others and will do for years to come. If I was using this in a classroom setting I would use it to spark interest in climate change. I would encourage the students to brainstorm their thoughts afterwards. We could then choose a particular focus to delve deeper into. We could also use some of the imagery as the basis for art projects. I would also use the film as a way to explore the topic through drama. Persuasive writing could be another way to explore the topic. I really enjoyed Greta Thunbergs Ted Talk. I felt her way of explaining that her voice was powerful despite her age was a good lesson to provide the students with.
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I found the home video to be an excellent resource to base a module of work of across the curriculum. As mentioned above, I think it would be good to break it up into chunks and manage children’s expectations so as not to foster to much eco-anxiety. For me, I think using Greta Thunberg’s life story is an excellent ‘springboard for engagement. I think she is is very inspiring and many students will look up to her as she is a powerful speaker. I think this would create a desire for pupils to learn more facts, which can be dense and complicated unless phrased in child appropriate language. I would create an activity where pupils have a list of real facts and fake facts and they need to watch the video in small groups to find out which is which. I believe this is important aas there is so much fake news surrounding climate change.
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I think your idea to separate fact from fiction is a fantastic one. It would be a great activity to do across mixed age groups, helping the children to learn from one another. You are correct that children will look up to Greta, it seems that they understand and appreciate her stance on climate action far more than listening to a bunch of adults speaking from behind podiums or desks.
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Module 3: “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand portrays the pure beauty of our planet. It is a very provocative film showing the history of our planet. It stresses the emphasis on agriculture reaching back for generations. It shows how we humans have lived off the planet. This thought-provoking film also demonstrates the natural movements of animals over generations too.
Unfortunately, this film also demonstrates the increasing population of the planet and how this ever-growing population is putting more and more pressure on the planet. This demand and is seen through deforestation, over fishing of our seas, rivers and lakes. One of the biggest factors affecting the planet is the extraction and burning of fossil fuels.
Burning of fossil fuels like coal, gas and oil has given some of the residents of this planet a comfortable and convenient life through providing heat and electricity and access to clean water and health services. Sadly, this isn’t the case for the majority of the planet who, are in fact the ones who suffer the most from floods, extreme weather, drought, famine, civil wars and more, sadly yet to come.
I think that this film by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and the Climate Aid 2020 short, demonstrate the reality of climate change in modern times and gives the children to see and reflect on these images. -
I really enjoyed the film ‘Home’. I thought it detailed a very powerful message. It highlighted Earth’s beauty but also the dangers it faces from climate change as we continue to burn fossil fuels. It shows everything from the melting of polar ice caps, to deforestation and even animal extinction. It highlights the importance of the action we need to take to try reduce or prevent further destruction. I thought the TED talk from Greta Thunberg was passionate and inspiring. In my classroom I would show different reels from the film ‘Home’ as it is quite long. I would integrate it into a lesson on how to spread awareness of climate change action supplemented by snippets of Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk. The children could design posters, do research projects, write a persuasive piece or even have a classroom debate.
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The video “Home” by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a profound and moving documentary that showcases the beauty and diversity of Earth’s landscapes and ecosystems. “Home” distinctly illustrates the serious impact humans have had on the Earth, showing how our actions have led to deforestation, climate change, loss of biodiversity, and other environmental crises. After watching clips from the movie, students (in groups) can be asked to research specific environmental issues highlighted in the documentary and present their findings to the class. You could also incorporate drama into your lessons (role play/conscience alley etc.). I would also use Greta Thunberg’s TED talk to demonstrate to the children that they have a very important role to play in trying to help climate change. The video is extremely thought provoking and the children can form a connection as she is of similar age to them. I thoroughly enjoyed the website where it calculated your own carbon footprint. This could open up invaluable discussions in the class as to what small steps can be taken to help our carbon footprint.
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<p style=”text-align: left;”>’Home’ was a really powerful way of delivering a powerful message, and affording lots of practical questions and discussions in the classroom, especially with Senior classes, however perhaps in snippets. A few other have mentioned eco anxiety here and I think that is a really concern in this area. It is important for children to understand the impact we are having on the planet and that we can work to effect change, however the thought that this hinges on the efforts of the next generation could be hard for some children to digest, especially those who are already anxious or literal thinkers. Caution is necessary, but a really useful resource to pull from.</p>
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I agree that it is a useful tool when used with senior classes, younger learners could be engaged also by pausing the video at key moments to discuss what they observe and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. Eco anxiety is an interesting concept, although we need to highlight the issue of th environment with children, it is important to do it in a way that does not cause stress or anxiety.
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“HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is an interesting documentary that highlights the effects human beings are having on the planet. The documentary conveys the connections between life on Earth and the consequences of our exploitation of natural resources, making it a powerful tool for environmental education. It introduces facts to convey messages about climate change and its effects on the planet.
Some of the most interesting facts explored are that of water scarcity, the documentary discusses this issue and addresses how water shortages are becoming increasingly common in many parts of the world, affecting agriculture, human health, and ecosystems. It also explores the issue of deforestation and how this contributes to the loss of biodiversity, disrupting ecosystems, and accelerates climate change by reducing the planet’s ability to absorb CO2.
Home can be an invaluable resource for teaching students about the importance of protecting the environment. As the video is quite long, I would show different parts of the film that introduce different topics such as biodiversity, deforestation, and climate change. The video could then be paused at key moments to what has been observed. Following observation, this could lead to activities such as creating posters, or written activities that illustrate the environmental issues observed. -
I think HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a powerful insight into how human actions have put a strain on the earth’s resources and led to the climate crisis. The documentary is beautifully filmed and is such eye-opening viewing. If using the video in the classroom I would show the children short segments to focus on a particular aspect of climate change. I would be conscious not to create a sense of fear and hopelessness as I think even young children can very easily become anxious and overwhelmed around the concept of climate change. Whilst climate change is an incredibly important issue for this and future generations, I think it is important to address the issue in an age-appropriate and optimistic manner to ensure not to frighten children.
Another great video to show the children when exploring the concept of climate change is Greta Thunberg’s Ted Talk. I think it’s really powerful for children to realise that someone so young has made such a difference and that their voice really matters. -
The video HOME is a very powerful, engaging and creative educational documentary.
Starting at the positive conclusion of the video would I feel be a good place to spark the interests of pupils.
A focus on how everything on earth is linked and that what is important is what remains, not what is gone.
The conclusion “it is up to us to write what happens next, together” is very meaningful.
The video itself contains an abundance of useful facts all connected to climate change and these could form the basis of so much classroom and home based activities. Group projects incorporating the following aspects would link in with maths, science, history, geography, art:
– an explanation of the rainfall system
– the history of agriculture and it’s significance as a sector.
– the fact that fish is the staple diet of 1 in 5 humans.
– fossil water is a non-renewable resource
– the function of marshes for purification of water
– trees form habitat for all life on earth.The video contains lots of inspiring phrases such as:
-“The world’s magic is right in front of our eyes”
-Forests provide remedies that cure us.
-Referencing trees, “we are of the same family”.
-Harmony between humans and nature.Highlighting the potential for mitigation is contained within these aspects of the video. Such aspects are important and worth sharing as part of education about climate change:
– Others pay the price without being actively involved.
-4 children out of 5 attend school and so knowledge is power in terms of working towards creative inventiveness for solutions.
-Programmes are possible to promote sustainability
-The development of renewable energies.
-Geothermal power, solar power generation and the absorption of energy of the waves and the wind.
-We should all think about what we buy
-Being a responsible consumer is crucial-
I like how you’ve highlighted the importance of focusing on solutions, such as the development of renewable energies and promoting sustainability. This not only empowers students with knowledge but also encourages them to think about their own actions and how they can contribute to a more sustainable future.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand has created a beautiful depiction of how planet earth worked harmoniously with nature and unfortunately it also displays too accurately the account of the destruction man has had on our beautiful planet. An interesting point to note from the film is how little time it took mankind to meddle in nature, the world is in existence for billions of years and mankind only 200,000 years.
One could introduce the topic with a KWL chart with an older class. I think the video needs to be watched in sections with some questions for them to ponder on during each session. I think a timeline might help children put events into context.
To encourage the children that there is always hope it is important for them to see some clips of relevant environmental activists in particular Greta Thurnburg as she is young and children may relate well with her. There is a lot of scope with this topic to do whole school assemblies on environmental awareness & for introducing incentives to improve the local environment in the school. The message needs to be all the small changes can make an impact overall. -
The video highlights humanity’s significant impact on the world despite our relatively short history of 200,000 years. It contrasts earlier, simpler times when work was done by hand and the Earth thrived, with the drastic changes brought by the introduction of oil, coal, and gas. For children in rural areas who have agricultural backgrounds, this video can provide valuable insights into historical methods of working the land. Although machinery has made tasks easier and faster, the video can inspire students to explore ways to reduce fossil fuel use in their own activities.
Additionally, showing Greta Thunberg’s TED talk would be a great complement. It allows students to hear from a peer who discusses climate change in clear and relatable terms. This can motivate them to think about their own impact on the environment and encourage them to develop small, actionable steps to promote sustainability.
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HOME is such a beautiful piece of film that exalts the viewer into a panoptical, God’s-eye view of our beautiful planet. In the same way that micro-photography illuminates the beauty in the minutiae of creation, looking down on the earth provides a new and jarring perspective on the intricacy of the systems, habitats and settlements within which we exist.
Extracts from this film would make wonderful leaping-off points for unpacking climate facts and how they relate to climate change. For example, a study of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island would make for a wonderful analogue to modern civilization and the fate that will await if we do not change our ways. Like the Rapa Nui, we are overpopulating our ‘island’ and expending its resources at an untenable rate. Linking this to a geographical/cultural study of the wider Polynesian area could deepen the children’s empathy for this lost people and give them to pause to consider what lessons their story may hold for us.
CLIMATE AID video 2020 is accompanied by the song Mad World and the musical choice could scarcely be more fitting. It’s perhaps a piece better suited to the older classes, given the graphic nature of some sections but certainly contains vignettes that will resonate deeply with the children’s sense of justice. It’s sad that we spend so much of a child’s infancy reading stories, playing games and creating and appreciating art that features the earth’s most beloved creatures, only to pull the rug on them some years later by revealing that we have pushed these creatures and their habitats to the limits of their existence.
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I would absolutely utilize some of the clips from the fascinating documentary Home to teach students about climate change and its effects on the environment. The amazing video clearly illustrates the effects of global warming. The rate at which the damage has been done and the possibility that it will get worse are particularly concerning. This video, in my opinion, would be a great starting point for group discussions on the subject in school. I think these topics could overwhelm children and it is important to keep this into consideration when teaching. One way to combat this would be to stay positive about the efforts being made to combat climate change. The Greta thunberg video would also appeal a lot to many children as they already are aware of her.
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The documentary ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is compelling in highlighting the devastation caused by humanity. The aerial shots are captivating and focus on various locations around the planet. No part of the globe is left unaffected.
The Climate Aid video is moving and the message hits home quickly in this short video. It also shows the negative effects of deforestation and pollution. This could be used as a stimulus at the start of a lesson. I would use clips from the ‘Home’ video and link them to the relevant activities throughout the year.
I think pupils would relate to the Greta Thunberg TED Talk by hearing a child speak about climate change. She is a role model for children. I found the video on Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2019 to be very positive by comparison. It demonstrates in simply and clearly steps we are taking locally. The Carbon Footprint calculator is an excellent tool to use with the class and it gives recommendations at end of the test. -
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The film “HOME” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning and deeply impactful documentary that emphasises the Earth’s ecosystems and the devastating effects of human activity on the planet. The aerial footage, combined with a compelling narrative, paints a vivid picture of the urgent need for sustainable practices. The other video clips in the module effectively complement “HOME” by breaking down complex climate change concepts into more digestible parts, making the information accessible for various age groups.
To introduce these climate change facts to my students, I would start with the short, focused video clips to build foundational knowledge. Afterward, I would show selected scenes from “HOME” to highlight the global scale of the issue. I would encourage students to reflect on how their daily actions contribute to climate change and brainstorm sustainable practices they can adopt.
To deepen understanding, I’d facilitate projects where students investigate local environmental issues and propose actionable solutions, linking their learning to the broader global context presented in “HOME.” Group discussions, role-playing activities, and debates could also help them grasp the ethical and social dimensions of climate change, fostering critical thinking and empathy. This approach not only informs but empowers students to become active participants in addressing climate change.
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The video “HOME,” directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, is a visually stunning documentary that explores the intricate relationship between Earth’s natural systems and human impact, particularly focusing on climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. The film is part of a broader educational module that includes various video clips aimed at illustrating the urgency and scale of climate change.
To introduce these climate change facts to 6th class students, I would start with a brief discussion to assess their existing knowledge and concerns about the environment. I would introduce the video ‘’Climate aid 2020’’ to my class to encourage a discussion on what is leading to such changes in our climate and the horrific natural disasters witnessed in the video. Using selected clips from “HOME,” I would guide students through the key themes, such as the beauty of our planet, the consequences of human activities, and the importance of sustainability. I’d follow up with activities that encourage reflection, such as group discussions, creative projects such as posters or short presentations, and hands-on experiments that demonstrate climate concepts for example the greenhouse effect.
To make the material more relatable, I would connect the global issues discussed in the film to local examples, such as changes in Irish weather patterns or the impact on local wildlife. Additionally, I would incorporate interactive elements, like using online resources or simulations, to make the learning process more engaging and tangible for my students. -
Home by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a is a visually breathtaking documentary that offers a panoramic view of Earth’s landscapes and the impact of humans on the environment. The film covers topics such as deforestation, climate change, urbanisation, and loss of biodiversity. It emphasises the need for immediate action to preserve the planet for our future generations. The message is clear and direct, using striking statistics that inform us of the severity of the issues. I feel that the video is too long to show to primary children as a whole film. I would rather show clips from the film and use them as triggers for discussion regarding climate change. The film does not provide solutions to the problems as such, this is a perfect opportunity for the children to create their own action plans. I also think that the Climate Aid video would have to be edited for children in primary school as I fear a lot of children would be dealing with climate anxiety. Seeing animals in distress is something that would be too horrific for children to deal with and would do more harm than good. I think that the Footprint Calculator is a great tool that could be used to highlight the actual impact that we as individuals are having on our world.
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Home by Yann Arthus Bertrand started with the very powerful idea of everything being linked and requiring balance to support life. I really enjoyed the description of trees as a ‘perfect living structure’ and then to outline later how they provide a canopy of life to three quarters of earth’s biodiversity. ‘Dubai is like the new beacon for all the world’s money’, I would contend it’s more a beacon for greed. As someone who briefly lived in the UAE and struggled to accept the wastefulness visible daily I have strong views with on desert cities portraying themselves as utopias. I found the fact of fish being the staple diet of one in five humans very interesting and concerning due to the degradation of our marine life. The reasons for optimism outlined at the conclusion proved more depressing given that the documentary was released 15 years ago and despite international agreements and increased media coverage we have yet to change course. I also found the Climate Aid Video very provocative and thought the images of protesters being treated with force would lead to discussions on climate action.
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I would use this video with my class to engage the children and spark their interests. HOME shows amazing aerial footage of the Earth, highlighting the beauty of our planet and the profound impacts of climate change.
It highlights the action we need to take to address environmental issues. The powerful visuals this video shows will inspire the children to stay engaged with the content.
In class, I would also use images and infographics to explain complex concepts visually. I think interactive activities would be great for the children too, such as simple experiments demonstrating the greenhouse gas effect.
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The video ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus Bertrand was very impactful. I didn’t know only 1% of the oceans floor accounts for coral which is so important for our sea life.
In class, I would take clips from this video as I think if played from start to end it could lose the children’s attention. This video is aimed at more senior classes in my opinion and it could induce a little bit of fear or anxiety around climate change.
Once the clips were watched, we would re cap and discuss what we saw. What are the implications of climate change and what can we do to help.
I would set up stations, 1st would be a serious of critical thinking questions with ipads and copybook to allow children to research their answers in relation to climate change. The second station would watch the Greta Thunberg Ted Talk which was excellent and v child friendly, the group would discuss their thoughts on this afterwards. The 3rd station would be a simple experiment to showcase rising sea levels or climate change. The final station would be a science experiment worksheet to complete following the experiment.
Finally, once the stations were complete, we could have a spokesperson from each group discuss their findings in relation to climate change.
An added addition would be an art display to stop climate change
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I think this video has great use in providing facts and engaging imagery. However, I do think that some parts present an opportunity to potential present climate change as something that will scare the children. I think that when looking for video resources it might be better to look for something geared towards children. BBC earth and BBC teach provide excellent videos that deal with these issues.
Additionally, having worked in rural schools with children who are farming mad (farming featured in the video), I think we have to be careful with identifying sources of blame for climate change. It is really important to have a positive ‘we can do it’ attitude for empowering children to engage with and identify how they can have a part in working against climate change. -
Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a powerful and visually captivating documentary that vividly illustrates the impact of human activities on the environment. The film’s sweeping aerial shots offer a unique perspective on the planet’s beauty and fragility, making it an excellent tool for introducing students to the urgency of climate change.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would first show select clips from Home that highlight key environmental issues such as deforestation, melting ice caps, and the effects of pollution. These visually striking scenes can serve as a powerful entry point for young learners, helping them to grasp the severity of these issues.
After watching the clips, I would facilitate a class discussion, encouraging students to share their thoughts and feelings about what they’ve seen. This would be followed by a more structured lesson on the causes and consequences of climate change, linking the film’s visuals to real-world data and facts.
To deepen their understanding, students could work on projects where they research local environmental issues or create their own mini-documentaries, drawing inspiration from Home. This approach would not only inform them about climate change but also empower them to think critically and creatively about solutions.
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Hi Paddy
I like the idea of using short clips from home to promote class discussion and then following up with a lesson on the science behind climate change and its impacts. I love your idea of using Home as inspiration for the children to create their own mini documentaries. This would be a great cross curricular project from the research to script writing and planning and then making and editing their videos. This could also form the basis for a Climate Detectives project which you will cover in Module 5.
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Module 3 Assignement
The documentary ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is serious and powerful. It evokes our thinking with its beautiful footage of our colourful planet using powerful music throughout that creates an almost unsettling feeling as we watch how exposed and vulnerable our Earth truly is. This is such a valuable stimulus for cross curricular lessons and I have lots of ideas on how I would introduce these topics to my class. Some lessons could be using quotes from the video, being mindful that watching the whole film might be overwhelming at first for children. Quotes such as: ‘Every species has a role to play, every species has its place. None is futile or harmful. They all balance out.’ She then goes on to say how humans have only been on the Earth for 200,000 years yet have ‘changed the face of the world’ and ‘conquered swafts of territory like no other species before you’ ‘taken possession of every habitat’. We could create interesting debates in English and discussion, write persuasively and use these quotes for a stimulus for oral reporting. Frozen images from this film could be given to groups to discuss, while then opening discussion and giving grounds for research into the different environmental issues at hand in the pictures. The music used in the film could be researched as it seems derived from different cultures throughout the world. Overall Home could be an inspirational and life changing piece to engage the children in discussion and therefore empower them to take matters into their own hands in some way.
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Hi Alice
You have some great ideas for incorporating the lessons from Home into your classroom teaching without showing them the whole film, which I agree would be too overwhelming for many primary school children. Using stills from the film is a great idea to promote open ended discussion and have the children form their own opinions on what is happening before being introduced to the science behind climate change. I also love the idea of using quotes from the film as a basis for debates and persuasive writing.
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Hi Alice.. I completely agree with you here in that the video could be too overwhelming for the children to watch all at once and how important it is to focus on the changes that we can make to help rather than worrying them about the damage that has already been done to earth. I also like your ideas of integrating the video with English debating and I think that would be great for older classes!
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This film ‘Home’ documented the effects that climate change is having on our planet very well. The production team of this evidently took great care in capturing beautiful aerial photos and then to put it together so well is also remarkable. I think that this video would be beneficial to show to middle and older classes as they could appreciate the the points being made in relation to their own lives and personal interests. The film would also be a good stimulus to spark a discussion afterwards. The children can discuss what parts they are happy/not happy with and from the re come up with ideas on how they can reduce their climate impact on a more personal and local level. This can be recorded on the interactive whiteboard and then possibly into a project using ICT for a school display.
From taking part in module 3, I enjoyed completing the questionnaire that calculated my carbon footprint. I was quite shocked to see the results and it has made me reflect and reassess my own approach to reducing my impact on climate change. I think that this would be hugely beneficial for the students in my class to take part in so that they too can to check their carbon footprint. -
The film ‘Home’ by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that delivers a powerful message about the state of our planet. The film took me on a breathtaking journey around the world, showing both the beauty of nature and the impact of human activity on the environment.
What makes the film impactful to share in the classroom, is the way it highlights the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. The aerial shots give a global perspective, making you realise how everything we do, from cutting down forests to burning fossil fuels, affects the entire planet. The film is a nice way to introduce the topic of climate change, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources.
I also like how the film inspires action. Similar, to the Greta Thurnberg speaking at TEDxStockholm – School strike for climate – save the world by changing the rules. Greta, has proved a great young role model and activist to discuss in the classroom when look at climate change.
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Home is a beautiful video and I think that it could be used in the classroom from junior infants to 6th class. It really shows the contrast in places in earth.. from remote untouched areas to man made cities. It will show children just how diverse the world is. It is also clear on how the rich man made areas are causing green house gases and effecting the poorer areas with climate change. It really displays the beauty of the world around us but also some of the damage that we are doing to our world. I think it would be a powerful way to encourage and motivate children to make a change. I think that it is very important to focus on what the children can do rather than worrying them too much.
I also liked the video from Greta Thumberg.. she is very motivational. I would definitely show this to a class as I think that because she is young the children could relate to her more and she is very focused on the changes that we can make. -
The video HOME is an excellent documentary with beautiful powerful imagery which would capture the attention of the class. There are soany different lessons you could create from this piece of cinematography. One of the most interesting facts I took from the documentary was the impact humans have had on the world since 1950. Since 1950 our population has nearly tripled and since 1950 humans have had the greatest impact in altering the world in our entire 200,000 years on the planet . With Nigeria being one of the largest exporters of oil and yet 70 percent of its population live in poverty, there are so many different lessons we can take from this video. For the older classes, the uneven distribution of wealth and its impacts would be another very interesting lesson.
Other videos which I’ve found really interesting are the Greta Thunberg TED talk . I feel because she is a young girl herself the kids would really relate to her and listen to what she has to say.
The video explaining the 4 types of climate from the Congo to the North Pole is a simple break down of why countries have certain climates. Very interesting
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I enjoyed watching the movie ‘Home’ , it was so informative. I liked how we were shown how fragile Earth is and that more fast paced humans become the less chance nature to heal. Us humans have done so much damage to the planet. Food wasteage, fashion industry destroying clothes rather than selling them cheaper, life in general encouraging us to buy more all the time.
One area I think I would take from the film to work with in my classroom is Food Wastage. Children could be introduced to this topic slowly and carefully. Children could learn to not throw out food but to keep it for later/ tomorrow, or shown simple baking recipes that would allow them to use unwanted ripening products EG Banana bread, apple tarts etc. I feel that while we have a duty to inform children about the damage we humans do , we must also be very careful not to put ‘Fear’ or ‘guilt’ into them too early. Eco anxiety I feel is areal thing. I have seen it with my own son.I also enjoyed the Greta Thunberg ted talk. I feel that as she is a young person , children in the classroom would respond to her quickly. Children could be shown pictures of her meeting with politicans and having her voice heard. I do thing this would inspire children to take action.
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Hi Orla,
I think that focusing on one area such as food waste is a great opportunity to make children aware of it and give them options to reduce it such as baking banana bread as you have mentioned. I also agree that there can be a level of anxiety in children around Climate Change and it is important to maintain a positive outlook and make them aware of small changes they themselves can make.
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In module 3, ‘Home’ is an informative documentary film by Yann Arthus-Bertrand that shows Earth’s beauty. The documentary film highlights critical issues related to the environment and climate change. I feel this would be suitable for the senior classes and could be shown over a number of days/weeks. The class would be captivated by the clips. Through watching this documentary film the class will understand how all living beings on Earth are interconnected and how humans have effected the planet. This will generate paired/whole class discussions what urgent changes need to be made. Class projects, discussions, activities all around the topic would enhance the pupil’s interests and knowledge.
The Greta Thunberg TED Talk video would be inspiring for the class as it highlights children have a say and have a voice which can be very empowering for the young students. But I feel the topic of eco-anxiety needs to be considered for the class. -
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I thought the video HOME was a fantastic visually appealing piece. I found the soundtrack very calming and it really hit home how rapidly humans are having a negative effect on the planet. Even though the subject matter is very serious, the language was easy to understand. I would only use very select pieces of this video with an older class, as similar to other views expressed here I think some children may find the subject matter disturbing and a bit unsettling.
I think it would be important after discussing the issues surrounding climate change with older classes to make sure to introduce them to someone like Greta Thunberg and the work she is doing to help stop climate change. I think it counter balances the HOME video very well, as it demonstrates to children that they too can make a difference, that children all around the world can have an impact on what happens to their planet. -
I found the videos to be compelling. “Home” was powerful and evocative, and it could be shown in segments over a number of days. The TedTalk with Greta Thunberg was clear and informative. However, I would query the age-level appropriateness for some of these videos, especially when it comes to eco-anxiety. The Climate Aid 2020 video is stark and could be used as a Trigger within the Esero framework. However, I would assert that this video, along with the others, would be suitable for a 5th and 6th class, as discussion could be used to discern the content. I feel that the Greta Thunberg video is a good example of a Trigger within the Esero Framework, as it poses the questions and challenges relating to Climate Change. Within the Esero Framework, I would use group work and discussion to develop the ‘Wondering’ and ‘Exploring’ aspects – what questions and statements arise among the children after watching this video? In terms of Investigation, the videos shown in this module could initiate starter questions on practices which can reduce our carbon footprint, such as the use of solar energy, wind energy and recycling.
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Hi Jacinta,
I agree that we would have to watch all the videos ourselves and choose relevant sections or videos to the class which would support the pupils in their learning. There is a level of eco-anxiety in some children and it is important to maintain a positive outlook and acknowledge the smaller changes they themselves can make in school, at home and in the local community.
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“Home” was powerful and evocative, and it could be shown in segments over a number of days. The TedTalk with Greta Thunberg was clear and informative. However, I would query the age-level appropriateness for some of these videos, especially when it comes to eco-anxiety. The Climate Aid 2020 video is stark and could be used as a Trigger within the Esero framework. However, I would assert that this video, along with the others, would be suitable for a 5th and 6th class, as discussion could be used to discern the content. I feel that the Greta Thunberg video is a good example of a Trigger within the Esero Framework, as it poses the questions and challenges relating to Climate Change. Within the Esero Framework, I would use group work and discussion to develop the ‘Wondering’ and ‘Exploring’ aspects – what questions and statements arise among the children after watching this video? In terms of Investigation, the videos shown in this module could initiate starter questions on practices which can reduce our carbon footprint, such as the use of solar energy, wind energy and recycling.
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