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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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The film HOME shows how everything on Earth is connected and how people are changing the planet. It uses beautiful pictures to help explain why we need to take care of the Earth. The other videos in the module also help to explain climate change in a simple way for children.
To teach these ideas, I would start with a short video like the Paxi one to get children interested. Then, we would talk about what they saw and how it makes them feel. We could use our class weather station to collect data like temperature and rain, and link it to what we’ve learned about climate. The children could work in groups to make posters or reports, and share ideas about how to help the planet. By doing this, they understand the facts and feel they can make a positive difference.
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The video ‘HOME’ by Yann Arthus Bertrand was Amazing and yet frightening at the same time. I thought it was a real wake up call to the state that our world is in and the destruction that us humans have caused. The Narrator was very clear in her first sentence she said “the story is yours….” , and this for me was very real, because yes it is our story and that of us now and our future and the children’s future and beyond. I thought that this video was very long and it would have to be broken up in to parts for the children over different lessons and I would show this to Senior classes. Also the video of the digger chopping down the tree, the pollution of oil spilling from the ship, the bloodied whale I thought that some of these images were too much especially for some children to see.
I would envisage teaching the facts to the children by doing first, see what they know about Climate change what they want to know . Then we would discuss the topic through oral language, small group discussions, watch the video Home, children could research their own project etc. in small groups just to name a few.
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Hi Catherine,
I like the inclusion of the first sentence of the film in your response; it is a powerful statement and a reminder of the fragility of Earth and our responsibility as its guardians. I agree with you in that some of the images within the film would be too much for small children, I liked your idea of breaking it in to parts in order to use it as a classroom resource.
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I completely agree with you—HOME really does a beautiful job of showing how everything on Earth is interconnected. The visuals are so powerful and really help bring the message home in a way that’s accessible and memorable for children. I also think the other videos in the module, like the Paxi one, are great for breaking down big concepts into child-friendly ideas.
I love your approach to starting with a video to spark interest and then building on it through discussion and hands-on activities like using the weather station. It’s such a meaningful way to connect learning to the real world. Giving the children the chance to create posters or reports not only reinforces their understanding but also empowers them to feel like they can make a real difference—which is so important.
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I found this module to be a tough one. I think you would have to be careful as a teacher know your class and what would be appropriate for them to be exposed to.
The Greta Thunburg piece would be a good place to start. Seeing how passionate she is and how capable a speaker she is simply remarkable.Facts based straight talking no messing around.She tells us about the rich countries getting richer and no help to the poorer countries.She is a great role model a power house for both climate change and autism.She tells us we can change things which is a powerful positive message to end with.
The Climate Aid 2020 video was very powerful.David Attenboroughs voice the Mad World song the images of fires smoke destruction devastation made it a hard watch.The message” if we dont protect nature we cant protect ourselves” is scary but true.Finishing with “we are running out of excuses and time”Its definitely one for older classes.The images of the poor animals in the australian fires would be a hard watch for the toughest person.
The film Home is another one for the older classes.It could be shown over two or three classes.The footage is amazing showing how beautiful but fragile our planet is.It offers a unique perspective of our ecosystems and the impact humans are having on them.It is a plea for us to look at what we are doing wrong and change our ways before we destroy our planet.The effects of the exploitation of our shared ecosystem will effect us all and will hit those who already face the toughest circumstances the hardest.I cant stop thinking about it the images the voice, the music, the message.
I think I would show the Irelands Climate Action Plan as it will show the children there are plans in place to try reverse damage done.Everyone has a role to play to achieve a climate neutral economy by 2050 having emissions by 2030.What are we doing in our schools and homes to play our part.
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Hi Brid,
I agree that this is definitely a challenging topic to introduce with young chikdren. Greta Thunburg would be an excellent starting point given her enthusiasm but also the fact that she has been advocating from a young age. I believe this helps children to reflect on how you can make a difference at any age.
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I found this module to be a tough one. I think you would have to be careful as a teacher know your class and what would be appropriate for them to be exposed to.
The Greta Thunburg piece would be a good place to start. Seeing how passionate she is and how capable a speaker she is simply remarkable. Facts based straight talking no messing around. She tells us about the rich countries getting richer and no help to the poorer countries. She is a great role model a power house for both climate change and autism. She tells us we can change things which is a powerful positive message to end with.
The Climate Aid 2020 video was very powerful .David Attenborough’s voice the Mad World song the images of fires smoke destruction devastation made it a hard watch. The message” if we don’t protect nature we cant protect ourselves” is scary but true. Finishing with “we are running out of excuses and time” Its definitely one for older classes. The images of the poor animals in the Australian fires would be a hard watch for the toughest person.
The film Home is another one for the older classes .It could be shown over two or three classes. The footage is amazing showing how beautiful but fragile our planet is. It offers a unique perspective of our ecosystems and the impact humans are having on them. It is a plea for us to look at what we are doing wrong and change our ways before we destroy our planet. The effects of the exploitation of our shared ecosystem will effect us all and will hit those who already face the toughest circumstances the hardest. I cant stop thinking about it the images the voice, the music, the message.
I think I would show the Irelands Climate Action Plan as it will show the children there are plans in place to try reverse damage done. Everyone has a role to play to achieve a climate neutral economy by 2050 having emissions by 2030.What are we doing in our schools and homes to play our part.
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I completely agree that starting with engaging videos like HOME or Paxi is a great way to capture pupils’ attention and emotions. Linking the discussion to hands-on activities like a class weather station makes the learning real, and creative group projects empower children to see themselves as part of the solution.
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I found the home video very difficult to watch, I would find it hard to show this to children as I’d be worried that they would be overwhelmed from it all. It is indeed very overwhelming I think it would cause anxiety. However, I think Greta Thunberg would be a more positive way to introduce a class to the devasting effects that climate change is having on the world. I feel that her voice has hope as does David Attenborough. Also, the fact that she is being bullied by Trump and how she deals with it is inspiring.
I took the carbon footprint test and found I felt really guilty about buying new things. I would do this as a group with my class, I think it would be suitable from 4th upwards.
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I really like how you’ve linked the film HOME and the other videos to classroom practice in such a meaningful way. Starting with the Paxi video is an excellent idea to capture children’s interest, and the discussion afterwards gives them space to connect emotionally with the topic. Using the weather station to collect real data is a brilliant hands-on approach that makes climate change more relevant and concrete. The group work with posters and reports also encourages collaboration and creativity. Most importantly, your plan not only builds knowledge but also empowers children to believe they can make a difference.
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The film ‘Home’ showed an incredible insight into how everything on earth is interlinked and works in perfect balance, for example how the earth’s perfect balance in relation to the sun enables it to conserve water in liquid form. It also illustrates how human activity is threatening this balance on earth, for example through pollution and CO2 emissions.
I would use this film in a senior classroom as I feel that it illustrates the beauty of the earth and evokes emotion. I believe that this film would inspire children on how they could take action in their everyday lives. I feel that this film enables higher-order thinking on the consequences of human activity and how this impacts ecosystems. I would also facilitate discussions on how countries with smaller carbon footprints often face the worst impacts from climate change.
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Home by Yann Arthus Bertrand provides an interesting timeline of humanity and our interconnectedness with the environment against a backdrop of stunning location footage from across the globe. The cinematography is stunning. I was interested to read that the film has no copyright and scenes from the film have been used in other documentaries and films. The score is also note worthy and adds to the impact of the film.
Using the score for a ‘listen and draw’ activity for a music lesson before showing excepts from the film would be interesting. I wonder if the children would associate the music with the film content?
I also found Greta Thunberg’s Ted talk and COP25 speech very thought provoking. Her Ted Talk particularly peaked my interest in her self awareness of her Aspergers Syndrome diagnosis. She explains very well how it enables her to see the need for action.
Apart from the climate message, I think the neurodivergent view she explains in her talk would be a good talking point for awareness among the children of the diversity and abilities in their peer group.
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I agree. Greta’s honesty about her Asperger’s and how it helps her see things is so inspiring. It’s a lovely way to start simple, meaningful conversations with children, not just about climate change, but also about how everyone thinks and learns differently. It can help the children understand and appreciate the different and unique strengths their classmates bring.
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Hi Carmel
I love your perspective on the videos in this module. As well as the messages on Climate Change, the videos can also be used for other purposes. I love the idea of the Listen and Draw exercise. It would be really interesting to see the children’s interpretations of the score, especially if you used contrasting parts such as where the beauty of the Earth is shown and where the focus is on human destruction. Greta Thunberg’s discussion of her Autism is a great way of introducing discussion on diversity but also a nice way to open up discussions about why some people see the problem of Climate Change more clearly while others dismiss it
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This is a thoughtful and well-rounded response. You’ve highlighted the powerful cinematography and soundtrack of Home beautifully, and your idea of using the score in a ‘listen and draw’ activity is both creative and cross-curricular, an excellent way to engage students emotionally before introducing complex topics. Your reflections on Greta Thunberg’s talks are insightful as well, especially in recognising the importance of her neurodivergent perspective. Linking this to discussions on diversity and inclusion within the classroom is a strong and meaningful extension that goes beyond the climate message, fostering empathy and understanding among pupils.
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‘Home’ is such a powerful film. It captures the beauty of our planet while showing the damage being done. It’s emotional and thought-provoking, and I think children would respond well to it.
For the Junior Classes, I would approach climate change gently, focusing on the idea of taking care of our world. I would use short, age-appropriate clips from ‘Home’ and the other videos as a starting point for discussion. From there, we could explore the themes through drawing, storytelling, or simple experiments. It’s all about helping them feel connected to nature and showing that their small actions can make a big difference. There is also the opportunity to link this to what we observe locally and around the school, such as weather changes in our area, litter in the yard, or how we travel to school. By keeping it relevant and child-appropriate, they will be inspired to care for the Earth and understand that their voices, actions and choices matter.
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Home is a visually stunning and emotionally impactful documentary. It was amazing to see the aerial journey across different countries. It was great to see the planet’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems. I felt quite guilty when it portrayed the devastating impacts of our activity on the environment. It really shares an extraordinarily strong environmental message and emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change, deforestation, water scarcity, and overconsumption. It is noticeably clear and informative, suitable for educational purposes. I feel my class would be captivated by it. It would serve as an excellent introduction to lessons on climate change, helping to spark curiosity and encourage students to consider how they can contribute to positive environmental change. Following the film, students could explore what actions Ireland is taking by watching Our Climate Action Plan (2019). I also completed the form: What is your Carbon Footprint and thought it could be a valuable and eye-opening activity for students to try at home with their families. As a follow-up, it would be great to have the children design posters with achievable goals and targets our school could adopt to help reduce our overall carbon footprint.
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Hi Dearbhail,
Thanks for sharing this! I completely agree—Home is such a powerful documentary, and the aerial views really highlight the beauty and fragility of our planet. It’s great that you’re thinking about follow-up activities like the Carbon Footprint form and poster-making—those are excellent ways to make the learning more personal and action-focused. Using Our Climate Action Plan to connect the global message to Ireland is a brilliant idea too. I’m sure your class would be really engaged with this approach!
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Home is a powerful and visually striking documentary that presents the story of our planet and humanity’s impact on it. The use of aerial footage across diverse landscapes helps to clearly show the beauty of Earth and the damage caused by human activity. The narration, combined with the emotive soundtrack, creates a strong environmental message that is both informative and moving. I also found it interesting that the film is copyright-free, making it more accessible for educational use.
Other video clips in the module, such as Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk and her COP25 speech, offer a more personal and urgent call to action. Greta’s honesty and clarity are inspiring, and her discussion of neurodiversity provides a great opportunity to open up conversations about inclusion and different perspectives in the classroom.
To introduce these climate change facts to pupils, I would start with short clips or visual prompts, such as scenes from Home or a “listen and draw” activity using the film’s soundtrack to spark curiosity. This could be followed by group discussions, poster-making, or data collection activities (e.g., measuring school energy use or completing a carbon footprint survey at home). These approaches help to make the topic relevant, engaging, and age-appropriate, while encouraging pupils to think critically about their role in protecting the planet.
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The most striking thing about the video Home was the phrase “The engine of life is linkage”, that everything is connected in this earth and in order for the earth and its inhabitants to survive we must all work together for everyone’s benefit. The changing overtime from the beginning of earth to when big cities have been built and the earth is now at a stage of water shortages as opposed to the beginning when it where there was no shortage of this renewable resourse. It was also strinking at the rate that deforestation is happening and the negative effect this has on the atmosphere. The introduction of the use of palm oil for different products has had an impact on the Amazon. Another striking statement was that Deforestation is a last resort. This whole video is very striking about what may happen to the Earth if we don’t do something about it now.
In terms of introducing a lesson on climate, I would begin with using the activities from module one on Weather and Climate and continue to develop the children’s knowledge on climate by learning about the atmosphere and it’s importance and how we as humans are responsible for protecting it. The paxi video will act as another lesson to further develop the children’s ability to understand the importance of the atmosphere and understand the meaning of climate.
This video will act as a an opening on the discussion about climate change facts for the pupils. We will brainstorm what the children know abourt climate change and what they would like to find out.-
Hi Adrienne,
Thanks for sharing.
I really like your approach to this lesson, ensuring the foundational understanding is in place with activities from module one, making use of Paxis videos to consolidate information before moving onto the moving and provocative film, Home.
As the film is quite long, it may be easier to watch in 30 minute episodes. To keep learners engaged, I sometimes ask learners to watch it and take notes: What are the three most interesting facts they discovered when watching it? By the end of the film, all learners should have some specific points to add to the discussion.
Great to see your emphasis on this being a child-led exploration of the topic, with a focus on what they would like to find out.There is so much information out there! I recommend An Taisce’s Climate Ambassador website for extra resources, video links and locally relevant information too! Resources – Climate Ambassador
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After watching HOME, it left a profound emotional and intellectual impression. The film highlights humanity’s disruptive impact on Earth’s ecosystems which I had never taken much time to think about: melting glaciers, deforestation, consumption and so on. I did think the limited time message would have to be handled with care around children and I think a more positive spin would need to be focused on in a classroom. I think an older class would respond well to Greta Thunberg’s speech as it is someone they can relate to. I think showing both over the course of a few lessons would be very beneficial.
To introduce these sensitive topics to children I would begin with a short class discussion: “What do you already know about Earth’s beauty and how human actions affect it?” This builds on prior knowledge. Then, I’d choose carefully segments of HOME—for example, scenes showing disappearing ice caps or sprawling mega‑cities to stimulate visual awareness. I would do a simple carbon‑footprint self‑assessment to see what impact we have on our earth adn how we can reduce or improve ie how we can take a proactive approach followed by small‑group discussions: “How does our lifestyle connect to the scenes we saw?”
I think HOME is a stunning emotional hook that raises environmental empathy and global perspective and would be captivating for children. I think it is important to show children that we can take action and unite together to make a better world. I think a whole school approach would be a brilliant way to start an active project in the school and involve the wider community too possibly. I would also check in with students at the end of the lesson to ensure they aren’t feeling anxious or overwhelmed as it is quite a worrying topic for children who are anxious.
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I agree that HOME leaves a powerful emotional impact and really highlights the scale of humanity’s influence on the planet. I like how you’ve thought carefully about age-appropriateness, especially the importance of presenting a hopeful, action-focused message to younger pupils. Using short, carefully selected clips to spark visual awareness and discussion is a great way to make the content accessible without overwhelming them.
I also really like your idea of including a simple carbon footprint activity as it’s practical, relatable, and helps children feel empowered to make small changes. The suggestion to take a whole-school approach is excellent, as it promotes a sense of shared responsibility and community action. Checking in with pupils afterwards is so important too, especially for those who may be more sensitive to these topics. This is a great idea which provides a thoughtful balance between raising awareness and supporting emotional well-being.
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The film Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, despite being over an hour and a half long, feels like just 10 minutes due to its compelling message that captivates the viewer. I would need to present it in segments to a class to allow for questions and discussions. It carries a vital message about our responsibility for the future of our planet in the coming decades. It’s essential to understand that even small changes in our daily routines can make a significant difference. This could lead to a discussion about Greta Thunberg and her efforts to combat climate change. The video would inspire the children to become role models for younger students and engage them in assisting junior classes with recycling initiatives at school. Utilizing a carbon footprint calculator would be an excellent tool to raise the children’s awareness of their environmental impact.
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Home is a super powerful and visually stunning documentary that tells the story of our planet and how humans have affected it. The aerial shots of different places around the world really show off how beautiful Earth is—and also how much damage we’ve done. The voiceover, along with the emotional music, sends a strong message about protecting the environment, and it’s both educational and touching. I thought it was really cool that the film is copyright-free, so it’s easier to use in schools and for teaching.
The part that stuck with me the most was the line, “The engine of life is linkage.” It’s such a simple but powerful reminder that everything on Earth is connected, and if we want the planet and all living things to survive, we’ve got to work together for everyone’s good.
The other videos in the module were also great at breaking down climate change in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.
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The film HOME is a powerful and visually stunning documentary that presents the story of Earth from a global perspective. Through aerial footage and narration, it illustrates the interconnectedness of ecosystems, the scale of human impact on the planet, and the urgency of climate action. The message is clear: while the damage is extensive, there is still time to change course if action is taken now. This film, along with the other video clips in the module, offers an emotional and accessible way to introduce environmental themes—particularly suitable for older primary pupils who are beginning to grasp global issues.
In my classroom, I would introduce these climate change facts gradually, using short, engaging clips paired with discussion and reflection. I’d begin with relatable local issues (like weather changes or littering) before linking them to larger global challenges. Visuals such as HOME help pupils connect emotionally with the content, making the science more meaningful and memorable.
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Home is a superb way of introducing for teaching climate change because it combines fantastic visuals with an easy to understand audio description.
The children would get a clear and concise understanding of the causes and effects of climate change and we as humans have contributed to this.
Discuss on global inequality in resource consumption and the environmental impact it has and explore possible solutions including a discussion on Greta Thunberg and her eagerness to be a voice about climate change through action. As she is a very inspirational speaker and I think the other children would enjoy this video.
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The film HOME is a really excellent visual journey that highlights the beauty and complexity of our planet while also showing the damage humans have caused through deforestation, industrialisation, and overconsumption. The breathtaking aerial footage is very impactful it helps children see the Earth as one interconnected system, making the consequences of climate change feel more real and urgent. The calm, narrative style of the film also makes it accessible for older primary pupils, especially when accompanied by guided discussion.
The other videos in the module, such as the Paxi clip on greenhouse gases, offer more age-appropriate, simplified explanations that are great for introducing complex ideas like global warming to younger learners. They use clear visuals and relatable examples that children can connect with easily.
In my classroom, I would introduce climate change through short, engaging videos followed by group discussions. We would explore our local environment, conduct weather observations, and link these to global patterns. I’d also include creative projects like eco-story writing, digital presentations, or climate-themed art to help children express their understanding.-
I really like how you’ve balanced the use of HOME with more age-appropriate resources like the Paxi video—it’s such a smart way to scaffold understanding across different levels. You’re absolutely right about the visual impact of HOME—even short clips can leave a lasting impression and really help pupils see climate change as a global issue that affects us all. I also love how you’re planning to ground it in local, hands-on learning like weather observations. That connection between the local and the global is so important in helping children feel both informed and empowered. The creative follow-up activities are a brilliant touch too—especially the idea of eco-story writing. It’s a great way to give pupils space to reflect, imagine solutions, and have their voices heard. Sounds like a really engaging and meaningful approach!
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I agree that the combination of HOME’s stunning visuals and the simpler Paxi clip works brilliantly. Starting local and building to global makes climate change relatable. I especially like your idea of creative projects, giving pupils a chance to express ideas through art or stories really deepens their understanding.
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The use of aerial cinematography gives pupils a global perspective, showing both the beauty of our planet and the damage being caused by human activity. It’s a resource that not only informs but evokes a strong emotional response, making it a powerful tool for sparking curiosity and reflection in the classroom.
For use with pupils, I would select short, age-appropriate clips that match our curriculum focus—such as deforestation, melting ice caps, or urbanisation. I’d pair these with follow-up discussions using a think-pair-share approach to help pupils process what they’ve seen. Integrating visual organisers like cause-effect charts or reflective journals would support deeper understanding. To take it further, we could link the film to a class project or campaign, empowering pupils to feel like they can make a difference locally.
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The film HOME is a powerful and visually striking documentary that communicates the urgency of climate change by showcasing the beauty of our planet alongside the environmental damage caused by human activity. Its aerial footage and emotional tone make it a compelling resource for raising awareness about the interconnectedness of ecosystems, human development, and climate impact. The other video clips included in this module, such as the Paxi video and Met Éireann’s Kids Climate Explainer, are excellent for younger pupils as they break down complex climate concepts into accessible, age-appropriate content.
To introduce these climate change facts to my pupils, I would start with the simpler, animated videos like Paxi to lay a foundational understanding. Then, I would use short, selected clips from HOME, particularly those showing natural beauty and environmental changes, to spark curiosity and discussion. This could be followed by open-ended questions like “What do you notice?” or “Why do you think this is happening?” I would build on their responses through project work, art, and local action, encouraging pupils to make connections between global issues and their own environment.
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I like how you plan to show the easy, animated videos first and then short clips from ‘HOME’. This will help pupils understand the big film better. I agree that the pictures and music in ‘HOME’ make it powerful and interesting. Asking open questions after the videos is a great way to get pupils thinking and talking. I also like your idea to use projects, art, and local action so they can link what they see in the videos to their own lives. This makes the learning fun, creative, and real for them.
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Hi Rhonda
I like your plan to explore the videos with your class, the Paxi video would help the pupils own knowledge and understanding of climate change and then showing clips of Home would support lots of discussion and critical thinking. You could show the clips that you feel are most appropriate for your own class. I like how you are planning to use project work and art to share their knowledge with the school community.
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It is an excellent idea to show the Paxi video first to introduce climate change. Pupils are given a change to fully understand the topic without overloading them with too much information as some of the videos have very strong imagery and powerful messages that are complex to understand. I love how you plan to break up the video Home into segments to really help the pupils fully engage with the films powerful message.
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The context for the following lessons is 5th Class based on the video clips I watched. I would begin with a story circle, showing a short segment from HOME—images of ocean, icecap, endangered animals—then prompting kids to imagine they live where these scenes are endangered and speak from that perspective in first-person, expressing what they see. Next, create fact cards with simple visuals: “sea‑level rise,” “melting ice,” “wildfires,” “carbon footprint,” each paired with a one‑sentence explanation and a picture the children draw. Then host a “science café”: small groups take turns presenting one fact card, explaining what causes it and what actions can help (like planting trees or turning off lights).
Finally, I would do a class pledge activity where each pupil writes a climate promise—e.g. “I will cycle more” or “I will reuse paper”—and everyone shares it aloud and it is displayed in our classroom to monitor our progress. These activities anchor Greta’s global warnings in personal experience, give facts context, invite creativity, and empower children with simple climate solutions they can understand and act on in their own lives.
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The film ‘Home’ is lovely to watch. It shows beautiful pictures of our world and also the harm people are doing to it. The clear voice and amazing views help explain climate change in a way that is easy to follow. The other videos in the module also help explain ideas like the greenhouse effect, global warming, and how people’s actions affect the Earth. In the classroom, I would start with short, easy clips to engage them. After each one, we could talk about what they saw and how we can help the planet. I would use examples from our own area, like changes in the weather or animals we see, so they can understand how these problems affect us too. This would help them see that we can all do something to help.
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The film HOME is a powerful and visually striking documentary that illustrates the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and the profound impact human activity has had on the planet. Its stunning aerial footage and emotive narration help communicate the urgency of the climate crisis in a way that is both accessible and moving. The video offers a broad, global perspective, which complements the more specific, science-based clips in this module, such as Paxi’s explanation of the greenhouse effect or the demonstration of future climate scenarios.
To introduce these climate change facts to pupils, I would begin by showing short, age-appropriate video clips, starting with Paxi for younger children to lay the foundation, and then using segments of HOME to explore deeper issues. Class discussions would follow, encouraging pupils to reflect on what they’ve seen and connect it to their own lives. I would also integrate creative projects such as storyboards, posters, or digital presentations to allow students to express their understanding and propose actions they can take to protect the environment. These multimedia resources can serve as a powerful springboard for fostering empathy, environmental awareness, and agency in learners of all ages
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Some of the key themes of the film HOME are:
Interconnectedness of Life on Earth
The film emphasizes how all living systems—climate, water, plants, animals, and humans—are deeply interconnected and dependent on Earth’s delicate balance.
Overconsumption of Natural Resources
HOME highlights the unsustainable rate at which humanity consumes fossil fuels, water, minerals, and land—especially in industrialized nations.
Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
Massive deforestation, especially in the Amazon, is shown as a major driver of habitat destruction, species extinction, and climate disruption.
Water Scarcity and Misuse
The film explores how freshwater sources are being depleted for agriculture and industry, with many rivers no longer reaching the sea.
Climate Change and Global Warming
It presents the human-caused buildup of greenhouse gases as a central threat to Earth’s stability, with melting glaciers, rising seas, and extreme weather as visible consequences.
Hope and Sustainable Solutions
Despite its urgent tone, HOME ends with examples of renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and conservation efforts that offer hope for the future—if action is taken now.
As an activity, the class e.g. 5th/6th could be split into groups and given a theme each. They would work on projects which would subsequently be presented in the school hall as a science/climate exhibition for the younger classes to visit. -
The film HOME is a powerful documentary that highlights the beauty of our planet while clearly showing the serious impacts of human activity on Earth. I feel this video is definitely more suited to senior classes. Younger students would definitely be overwhelmed by it.
Some of the other video clips in the module, like the Paxi animation on the greenhouse effect, are excellent for younger pupils. They explain the idea in a very child friendly way and are perfect for introducing climate change without overwhelming them.
To introduce these topics in the classroom, I would begin with the lighter, animated videos like Paxi to build understanding and initiate discussion. Then with older pupils in a senior class, I would use short selected clips from HOME to spark the discussion further.
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I completely agree with your approach. Starting with the Paxi animation is a great way to ease younger pupils into the topic without causing confusion or worry. The visuals and simple language really help make complex ideas like the greenhouse effect more accessible. I also agree that HOME is much more suited to older pupils—some of the themes and imagery could definitely be overwhelming for younger children. Using carefully chosen clips with senior classes is a great way to spark meaningful discussions, especially when paired with activities like debates or group projects. It’s all about finding that balance between informing and empowering.
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I think the first clip with the mad world soundtrack could be used to shock children into realising what an awful world we have created and are responsible for. I would probably only use with 5th and 6th classes.
There is a lot of facts present in the film Home. I think I would divide the movie into chunks to help the children digest all the information and to give to some time for thought and reflection. Taking the first 20 minutes of the movie I would hope to elicit from the children the key message which is that Earth is our only home. I think there is great footage to help the children marvel at how amazing the world and all its physical features is. Perhaps a quick activity would be to ask the children which feature they most marvel at, is it the volcanoes? Ocean? or the animals?
There is a good mix with history so i think it would be prudent to preteach how civilisations have come about and the great shifts in mankind through the agricultural and inductrial revolutions. Some key questions could be , how has man manipulated the earth for his benefit? And what are the negative effects of man’s involvment with nature? This last question could be the source of a mini project for pupils as the movie highlights how negatively we impact our other humans particularly those in developing countries as well as the negative environmental impact.
Finally having gone through the movie in sections , I would try and finish with a note of optimism. Children could discuss what they can do to help the situation. Also they could think about how our government and others around the world could improve the situation.
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The film Home is a very eye opening watch, it really highlights the inter connectivity of life on Earth and the impact we as humans have. It is very well put together, the images are harsh at times but hit home about the true reality of climate change.
As the film is long and some images may not be suitable for all students I think I would just show different segments of the film to a class. There are definitely some scenes worth using as a lesson stimulus with older classes. For younger classes the Paxi video could be used as a lesson stimulus.
I like the idea of using a short segment of the film or a variety of still images for a lesson stimulus and asking the students thought provoking questions such as, ‘What do you think this image is trying to tell us?’ Or ‘What does this image/short clip make you think of?’.
Leading on from an introductory task as mentioned above I think using the carbon footprint tool could be beneficial, letting the students explore individually or as a class group how they are having an impact on the environment.
I would then assign the children a pair work task where there work to generate posters on the theme of climate change. They poster activity would encourage the kids to include some images and drawing showing the impact of climate change, some facts they found interesting and some ways they can help reduce individuals carbon footprint. The posters would then be displayed around the school.
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Research Question:
How has our school’s local temperature and rainfall changed over the past 10 years, and what can we do to raise awareness about climate change in our community?Reflection:
To encourage pupil participation, I would begin by framing the project as a real investigation where they become “climate detectives” working to understand and protect their own environment. This sense of purpose is key to engagement. We would start with a whole-class brainstorm about what they already know or have noticed about local weather changes—perhaps warmer winters or heavier rain. Then, in groups, pupils would gather data from online sources like Met Éireann or local archives, and compare it to current observations (e.g. rainfall collection, daily temperature logs).Pupils could take on different roles—data collectors, graph designers, report writers, and presenters—so that everyone is included, regardless of ability level. To deepen the impact, we could share findings with the wider school or even the Green Schools Committee. Linking the research to a tangible outcome, like a poster campaign or climate awareness day, would help pupils feel their voice and actions matter.
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Hi Tommy
First can I just point out that you have posted this response to module 5 in the module 3 forum, so you might want to copy it into the correct location to ensure it is logged correctly.
Linking past weather changes to local community action is a nice idea for a project but as I have pointed out to many other participants suggesting a 10 year time period, you will need to broaden your timeframe to make it relevant to climate. As yearly weather fluctuations are common, changes in climate can only be measured by analysing weather data gathered over a period of 30 years or more. While pupils may have direct experience of weather over a shorter time period, online data is easily available for longer periods. I love the idea of different roles within the group so that everyone is involved in the project and everyone can play to their own strengths.
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The video ‘Home’ is an incredibly powerful and eye-opening documentary that beautifully captures the uniqueness of our planet while also shedding light on the damage being done to it. It presents a compelling message about the importance of protecting the Earth. Similarly, the Greta Thunberg video clip will be particularly impactful for older classes, encouraging pupils to reflect on their role in shaping a better future. Both videos have the potential to inspire young people to take positive action for the environment, now and in the years to come.
When teaching climate change to younger classes, it is essential to approach the topic in a way that informs without causing fear. Focusing on simple, positive actions such as picking up litter, planting flowers to help bees or reducing plastic use, can empower children to make a difference. By delivering age-appropriate lessons, pupils can learn that even small changes in their everyday lives can have a big impact on the health of our planet.
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Hi Edel,
I agree that with the younger classes it is important to approach the topic of climate change without causing fear. It is important to acknowledge all the small changes the pupils can make in their own local area and to encourage family members and the wider communities to do the same. As you have mentioned the video from Greta Thunberg, there is a lovely book in the Green Schools Book Club called Greta and the Giants. It is ideal for the younger classes to explore Climate Change and how they can work together to make changes.
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The documentary HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand was both powerful and unsettling. I found it to be a stark reminder of the current state of our planet and the significant impact human activity has had on the environment. The opening line, “The story is yours…”, really struck a chord with me. It serves as a poignant reminder that this is our story—one that affects us now, and more importantly, future generations.
While the documentary is incredibly informative and visually striking, its length means it would need to be broken into manageable sections for classroom use. I would reserve it for senior classes, as some of the imagery—such as deforestation, oil spills, and whaling—may be too intense or distressing for younger pupils.
In introducing the topic of climate change, I would begin by finding out what the children already know and what they’re curious to learn. This would lead into discussions through oral language activities and small group conversations. We would then explore the documentary HOME in stages, supported by further research and group projects. This approach would help students engage meaningfully with the topic while developing a deeper understanding of their role in protecting the planet.
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The film ‘Home’ has some amazing footage of different places all over the World. Between the imagery and music, it is a thought provoking ‘kick’ in how we are looking after our World. The impact of the way we operate within this ecosystem and the damage we are contributing to is extremely worrying. I think children will be amazed and shocked, at the same time. It could really help highlight the importance of our own individual actions. It also provides means in how we can stop the destruction and help with solutions. I think it would be more effective to watch the video in class in 15minute segments.
The short video on Irelands climate change plan 2019 would help children to make a plan on how they could help with some of the targets. Children could look at the carbon footprint questionnaire with their family as apart of how we can all can contribute to climate change in our homes.
To create awareness around our school the children could produce posters to promote ways of reducing our carbon footprint.
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I thought the Home film was very interesting and visually beautiful, I had never heard about it before. It highlights many areas around the world that I would not know much about in terms of the environment. I find it useful for my own knowledge about about these issues around the world that impact us all. I wouldn’t use it at primary level as I feel it is too in depth and foreboding, however I can see how it would invaluable in second level. I feel it is enough to follow the lessons suggested by the likes of SEAI and ESA and the videos suggested like Paxi. There are also some great suggestions of lessons in the SESE programmes in schools like in the Explorers programme, which also have level appropriate images and videos.
Watching clips of Greta and talking about what her activism is about I think is a wonderful way to connect with children also.
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The Climate Aid 2020 video sent a harrowing message ‘If we don’t protect nature we cant protect ourselves’ combined with photographic evidence of drastic climate change which demonmstrates the gravity of the situation and explores the impact on us as humans. I love the message of children being leaders in this and being the voice to convince the adults/ companys/ governments who can make changes to do it for their sake. A really encouraging message for young people. The ‘Home’ movie explains climate change with beautiful and serious imagery that shows our earth. It represents our beautiful planet and the need to protect it while also explaining the fragile nature of it and our effect on it asking us to help. I also enjoyed the Greta Thunberg video as it shows a child similar to them sharing this messaging and makes it relevant to them.
All these videos provide usual information and imagery for children and suit a lot of different learning styles. I think I would use these videos to introduce climate change facts however I think I may show certain parts/sections depending on the specific topic being covered as there was a lot of areas covered in the long movie. I would also show certain parts based on the children’s age level and specific circumstances such as concentration etc… I may also use these videos as inspiration to encourage the children to make their own climate change and solutions video which they could share with eachother and other classes in the school to further spread the dangers of climate change and ways to help.
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The video ‘HOME’ by Yann Arthus Bertrand was very powerful but also quite hard to watch at times. It showed clearly how much damage humans have done to the planet. The narrator’s first line “the story is yours” really made it personal for me. It reminded me that this is something we all have to take responsibility for now and for the future. The video is quite long so I would split it into parts and show it over a few lessons. I would use it with older classes because some scenes like the digger cutting down trees, oil spills, and the injured whale might be too much for younger children.
I would begin by asking the children what they already know about climate change and what they want to learn. Then we could talk about it in groups, watch parts of the video, and let the children research their own projects in small groups. This way they can learn in different ways and get involved.
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Hi Katie.
Welcome to the course. I agree that showing clips from the documentary Home may be more suitable for pupils, it would also allow for discussion following the clip to allow pupils to share their thoughts and also what steps they can take. It is important to focus on the steps they can take individually and as a class to ensure it is positive and about taking action as some pupils can be quite anxious about climate change, from my own experience, as you have said there are different ways they pupils could engage and learn about climate change through project work.
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The film Home is a powerful and eye-opening documentary that highlights the deep interconnectivity of life on Earth and the significant impact of human activity on the planet. It powerfully conveys the reality of climate change.
Given the length of the film and the intensity of some scenes, I would show selected segments that are most suitable and impactful for 5th and 6th class. These clips would be particularly effective as stimuli for older students. For younger classes, the Paxi video provides a more age-appropriate introduction to environmental issues.
I particularly like the idea of using short clips or still images from Home to prompt reflective discussions. Questions such as, “What do you think this image is trying to tell us?” or “How does this clip make you feel about the environment?” could encourage critical thinking and emotional engagement with the topic. I would also discuss Greta Thumberg as a lot of the children are aware of her in my class and discuss why she is doing this and the impact she has had.
Following this introductory activity, using a carbon footprint tool would be a valuable way to help students understand their personal or collective impact on the environment. Whether explored individually or as a class, it encourages awareness and accountability.
To consolidate their learning, I would assign a paired task where students create informative posters on the theme of climate change.The posters would then be displayed around the school to raise awareness and share learning with the wider school community.
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Hi Lorraine.
Welcome to the course and thanks for sharing your thoughts on Home. It is a powerful documentary.
I agree that it is best to choose different scenes to show the pupils in your class. Every class is different and the response to different scenes could differ. I also agree that this also allows for reflective discussions and critical thinking and also encourage pupils to reflect on action they can take themselves whether at home or in school or in their local community.
I like how you plan to use their learning to create posters to display around the wider school community to raise awareness and inform others about climate change.
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The first thing I felt after watching this video was a sense of helplessness at the direction our planet is going in. The scenarios and facts presented in the video are quite simply, frightening. Due to the nature of the video the facts would have to be introduced very carefully to pupils and in an age appropriate manner. The first thing that I would do would be to inform parents/guardians and to encourage them to watch the video in advance of my lesson. I would then introduce it to the children as a talk and discussion activity. I would try and get as much prior knowledge and information from the children as I could. My aim would be that we would have already discussed most of the facts and topics prior to watching the video. By doing this, watching the video and seeing the facts would reaffirm the class discussions and I think the children would buy into the lesson objectives more.
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Hi Liz,
That is a great point to send the information and link home to parents and encourage them to watch the video themselves prior to the lesson in school. I also think that is a good idea that the pupils have covered some lessons prior to watching the video so they have knowledge and it would reaffirm the class discussions as you have mentioned. Thanks for sharing.
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The film Home is a powerful and shocking documentary that shows us the story of Earth through aerial footage and narration, it shows the link clearly the damage that is being done by humans but also emphasises that it’s not too late to change and reverse the global environmental damage. I do think this video is very long at an hour and half, therefore would be best shown over a period of time or picking some clips etc. I also believe that this is for the senior end of the school, even 5th/6th class as it can be “blunt” at times. Having said that it would definitely open up a great conversation, and get the children thinking critically, reflecting on what can we do to be proactive at school and home and also discuss the good think we are doing to be green. It also would be great to encourage the children to be life long learners as being environmentally aware is a life skill that’s so important.
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The film ‘Home’ makes grim viewing as it is an indictment of the human race and how it has exploited the earth and its resources for own selfish gains. While I think the video is not suitable for young children there are many aspects of the film that could be utilzsed for teaching. The film refers to coral reefs which are an essential link in the chain of species and would be good topic to cover with children in relation to climate change. The film ‘Octonauts and the Great Barrier Reef’ could be shown to the class as an introduction to the topic.
‘Home’ also highlights the distances that consumer goods must travel and it states that approximately 500,000,000 containers are transported across the seas each year. Thus, fast fashion could be a topic that would be appropriate for older classes, and it would encourage them to think about the impact of consumerism on the environment.-
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I agree that HOME would not be suitable for younger classes as it could cause quite a level of anxiety, but as you say, using clips to start discussions about consumerism and fast fashion etc. would be invaluable. We did some Concern debates in recent years and one of them was about this very idea – the children learned about where their clothing comes from/how it is made etc. and it raised awareness of the damage our throwaway culture is doing to our planet. As they say, knowledge is power, and by the end of the debate, the children felt empowered to make more informed decisions about what they were buying.
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The film Home is a powerful and eye-catching documentary that shows how human actions are harming the planet. Home is directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. It uses amazing aerial videos from countries to show both the beauty of Earth and the damage we are causing to nature. The film also explains why it’s so important to take action on climate change. I am really looking forward to using this in my classroom. This was the first time I came across this film, Home. It is so impressive. I think you would have to be careful when using this resource in the classroom as I can see how it can be effective yet could be over whelming for some children.
To introduce this topic to the children I would begin with a short class discussion: “What do you already know about Earth’s beauty? How are the actions of humans affecting it?” Then, I’d choose carefully, some segments of HOME—for example, scenes showing disappearing ice caps or sprawling mega cities to stimulate visual awareness. We would discuss what impact we have on our earth and how we can reduce or improve our impact.
In small groups, the children would work together to make posters, research their own mini projects or write reports, and share their ideas on how to help the planet. This helps them understand the facts better and shows them that they can make a real difference. They could work together to create a whole school presentation on one issue from the film for example water use, farming or deforestation. -
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The film Home is a beautiful visual piece with a stark message for viewers. The main message of the film cannot be ignored and while important I think the film content is more suitable for the senior classes, as it is slightly frightening and hard hitting. I would use this video to put into context the seriousness of climate change and to start a discussion on how we could be doing more. It would lead to some of the following points: pollution, deforestation, research of renewable energy resources that are being used, initiatives in the local community and in Ireland as a whole, identifying what the stance is at national and international level on climate change. The Climate Aid 2020 video was also very profound, and the children would be familiar with David Attenborough and therefore I feel be responsive to it. In the classroom I think the topic of climate change should be handled with care and caution and these videos should be used in an informative and thoughtful way to allow children to gain an insight into how they can help our environment.
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Hi Sarah
I agree that we should choose the relevant scenes from Home that are suitable for the learners in our class. At times there can be a high level of anxiety among learners relating to Climate Change and it is important to address climate change in the classroom in a positive manner and as you have mentioned to give the learners an insight as to how they can help the environment and acknowledge the changes they can make in their school, at home and in their wider community.
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The film Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand uses stunning aerial footage and clear narration to show how interconnected Earth’s ecosystems are and how human activity is rapidly altering them. It presents climate change facts through powerful visuals—melting ice caps, deforestation, desertification, and urban sprawl—making the science both accessible and emotionally impactful. In a primary classroom, I would introduce these facts by first showing short, age-appropriate clips that focus on positive actions and the beauty of our planet, ensuring pupils feel inspired rather than overwhelmed. We would discuss what they saw, using simple language to explain concepts like greenhouse gases, renewable energy, and protecting biodiversity. Activities could include mapping where different scenes were filmed, creating posters about helping the planet, or linking the images to local environmental actions. By focusing on both the challenges and the solutions, pupils can understand their role in protecting Earth and feel motivated to make a difference.
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I found the documentary ‘Home’ to be a stunning and fascinating piece of work. The way it commects all all of the dangers facing our earth, such as de forestation and climate change is amazing. It creates a fantastic sense of shared responsibility. Shared responsibility is something that we teach the children in all aspects of school life but highlighting its role in protecting our planet is fantastic. To do so in a video with such brilliant images really hits home.
As regards introducing these facts to the children, I would do so in a balanced way. I don’t think it would wise to bombard the children staright away with all of these depressing facts as that would be too much for anyone to take in. I would do so slowly at various stages throughout the year. This would allow the children to digest a smaller number of facts at a time and also keep the climate change discussion ongoing throughout the full school year.
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I have to agree with you, I dont think this is a topic that can be covered in a couple of lessons and then move on. It would be much more effective to revisit this topic often, keep an open dialogue about it and monitor the news for events that are happening in the world that can be lined with the topic.
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I found HOME to be a really powerful watch, the aerial shots are stunning but also quite sobering when you see the scale of deforestation, melting ice, and overuse of resources. The Greta clip from the UN Climate Change COP25 – Climate Emergency Event adds an urgency and honesty that is hard to ignore. Shen is direct and challenges us to act now, which I think can really inspire young people if handled carefully.
For introducing this to 3rd class, I would keep it simple and positive. I would show them short, colourful sections of HOME that celebrate the beauty of the planet first, so they connect with it emotionally. Then I would introduce one or two key facts in language they understand, e.g., “Some people use more than they need, which leaves less for otherss and for nature.” We could brainstorm together small changes we can make at home or in school, then turn their ideas into drawings for a “Caring for Our Earth” wall display. That way, the focus stays hopeful and action-oriented rather than overwhelming.
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Home is such a powerful film and I think it would cater for the senior end of the school. Its stunning footage shows the beauty and fragility of our planet over 50 countries, the damage us humans are causing, and what we can do to help protect it. Its definitely a documentary that leaves a lasting impact. I think it would really get the children thinking about how we all have a role in protecting and looking after the tiny part of the world we live in.
Gretta Thunberg’s piece would definitely be of interest to older classes. I think they all know of her and the fact she speaks from the heart and is so passionate about helping our planet. It would ignite some ideas for them to maybe in groups write up a report on her facts or to hold a class debate on climate change. I feel her honesty around being neurodivergent would teach the classes empathy and understanding to how others learn and see the world.
After watching the movie, Home with older classes I would end with a class discussion. Children could talk about how they can help and how governments in Ireland and everywhere could make things better. This would be a good starting point for project based activities in their groups.
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Watching HOME opened my eyes to just how incredible our planet is, and how much damage we’ve already done. The aerial shots of forests, oceans, and cities are stunning, but it’s hard to enjoy them fully when you see the destruction happening alongside them. Greta Thunberg’s speeches and the Climate Aid 2020 clip made the message even clearer: climate change isn’t just a distant problem, it’s happening now, and it’s about real people and real futures.
With my pupils, I’d start by focusing on the beauty of nature and why it’s worth protecting. We could share photos, go on a short nature walk, or watch short video clips that show the beauty in nature across a variety of climates. Then, we could discuss the idea of small, positive actions we can take, like turning off lights, using less plastic, or planting flowers for pollinators. I would aim to leave them feeling hopeful and ready to make a difference, even in little ways.
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The video ‘HOME’ really does a fantastic job of showing how everything on earth is connected. It also shows how much of an impact that we have on climate change. It is quite interesting and a little scary at the same time! The images used help to clearly explain why it is vital that we play our part in taking care of our planet. I think the climate aid 2020 video sends a powerful message! Both of these videos could be used in the senior classes. The Greta Thunburg video would be great for middle classes too! I think that she sets a great example for the younger generation. I do think that for the Junior classes, introducing the topic of climate change through ‘taking care of our planet’ is the way to go.
The videos in this module are very informative and would be very useful in teaching climate change with the middle/ senior classes. Some of the information, although factual, might have to be diluted slightly for the younger classes. However, it is very important that children are taught about this from a young age. -
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Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning documentary that offers a powerful overview of Earth’s natural beauty and the environmental challenges it faces. Through breathtaking aerial shots, the film highlights the planet’s diverse landscapes while showing the impact of human activity on ecosystems, forests, water sources, and the climate. Its strong message about sustainability and global responsibility is both urgent and hopeful.
For primary school children, Home can be a valuable educational tool. While some content may need simplification, the film’s visuals can spark curiosity and emotional connection to nature. I would use short clips to introduce topics like deforestation, pollution, and renewable energy in an age-appropriate way. Follow-up discussions and creative activities, such as drawing or storytelling, can help children express what they’ve learned and understand their role in protecting the Earth. Home encourages young viewers to care for the planet and think about solutions for a better future.
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Home was an extremely powerful at conveying the urgency and reality of climate change. It is an amazing teaching resource to help pupils understand the reality of the effects of human actions on our planet. However, the film is very long and does have some extreme imagery that may upset pupils. It would be necessary to pick and choose what sections of the film are appropriate to use when teaching about Climate Change. I would suggest using this film with the older classes.
To introduce the topic of climate change, I would begin by showing the Climate Aid 2020 video to spark discussion. Pupils would be encouraged to explore what climate change is and why it’s important for them to understand it. The film Home would then be used to highlight the impact of human actions on the environment and the resulting effects on our planet. While watching selected clips from Home, pupils would work in groups to answer guided questions and record key facts. This information would then be used collectively to create a class display on climate change.
To extend the learning further, pupils would develop a School Climate Action Plan, guided by the Climate Action Plan video. Selected clips of Greta Thunberg would be used to inspire and support the class in creating a presentation, which they would deliver to other classes and the school principal, outlining their proposed Climate Action Plan.
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The video HOME is a very impactful and sobering watch. It really outlines the delicate balance our ecosystem needs and how the damage humans are doing is upsetting that balance. Like a lot of things to do with Climate Change, it is very hard hitting. The messages that these types of films deliver are very important and certainly need to be communicated, however, they can sometimes leave the viewer feeling overwhelmed or even a little bit hopeless, as it is easy to feel quite powerless in the grand scheme. This is why I think I would only show parts of the video to classes. The Climate Aid video carries the same message but manages to retain a message of hope and for that reason I think is a lot more suitable for the classroom. I could definitely see myself discussing Ireland’s Climate Action Plan as again, this would give the children an insight into the positive steps that are being taken and the need for solid action and accountability. It highlights the individual and collective roles we can play to work towards our goals.
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I found this module to be very thought provoking and at times worrying. The first video Climate Aid 2020 was harrowing. It was definitely delivering a clear message about the effects of climate change on our planet and it evoked a strong emotional response in me. I think for this reason it is not suitable for the classroom, a bit too stark and upsetting for children. I do think its a great video for teachers to watch before teaching this topic, for their own information. The Home movie was powerful. It brought us from the beginning to the here and now in a simple and visually powerful way. It really showed the connection humans have had since the beginning to our planet and how over time our greed has affected our landscape. This is a very long video but could be worthwhile showing a class over a period of time. I think I would start with the Greta Thunberg video for introducing the topic to the children. Hearing the facts from a child’s mouth would be more engaging for them. Greta is very powerful in her convictions and gets her point across in a clear way. I think this video would open the conversation about the effects of climate change on our planet and with the aid of some suitable videos and images this could be further explored. I would draw the children’s attention to all the changes we are already making by showing them Irelands Climate action plan and we can discuss the changes we can make in our daily lives to contribute to saving our planet. The key message is that we are all responsible and we all need to take action.
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The film home by Arthus Bertrand was captivating. Spanning over 90 minutes, the film delivers an intimate portrayal of our planet’s beauty. Based on the message that human activities are rapidly degrading Earth’s ecological balance, Home interweaves important facts with aerial views, ensuring that its environmental warnings are both compelling and emotionally resonant. Even the narration of this film appeals to the senses, causing the viewer to appreciate that it is our responsibility to protect the plant in order to ensure its sustainability for future generations.
This would be a useful video to include as part of lessons on the topic of climate change. Given the length of the film, it could prove more useful to present shorter snippets to the children. One approach may be to show a clip from the film as a lesson stimulus in order to elicit the children’s prior-knowledge of the topic. From there, the teacher could engage in direct teaching and guide the children in researching their own aspect of the impacts of climate change. -
I found the film HOME very moving. The images are breathtaking but also quite hard to watch at times, especially when it shows the destruction caused by human activity. It really brought home to me how connected everything on Earth is, and how quickly things can change when we don’t look after our planet. I agree it would be too long and heavy for younger children, but I think showing short sections to older classes would be very effective.
I also thought the other videos in the module worked well alongside it. The Paxi video is light and child-friendly, and I think it would be a good way to introduce climate change to younger pupils. In the classroom I would use the videos as a starting point for discussion and then build activities around them—like making posters, writing pledges, or linking the content to our school’s Green Schools work. That way, the children see both the seriousness of the situation and also that they can do something to help.
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Hi John,
Thanks for sharing. You make valid points about the HOME film-I think it is so important that educators see this to encourage a focus on this critical topic. It’s a heavy-hitting film, and by using snippets, it can be a more accessible and age-appropriate prompt.
Paxi’s videos are terrific, light and child-friendly, as you say, and ideal for young learners(and old! We can all learn a little from Paxi!). Even learners who have covered the topic in previous years will benefit from the quick recap this video provides.
It can be great to connect this to local environmental issues and empower learners to take climate action, a great remedy for climate anxiety. Making posters and writing pledges are great examples that you have provided. On the pledges, I do think it is important to keep them small, realistic and within the control of the learner-I have seen pledges before to “become a vegetarian”, which is a much bigger and family-based decision! No matter how small the action of the pledge, over time all these actions accumulate and compound, having a positive impact, and learners can take pride in their environmental stewardship.
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The film Home delivers a powerful message about climate change by showing how human activity is damaging Earth’s delicate balance. Through stunning aerial images, it highlights the beauty of our planet while also exposing the consequences of deforestation, overconsumption, and reliance on fossil fuels. The contrast between nature’s resilience and the fragility of ecosystems under pressure makes the urgency of climate action very clear. The film encourages viewers to recognise that climate change is not a distant problem, but a present reality that requires global cooperation and individual responsibility to protect our shared home.
In my classroom I would approach introducing climate change facts in a way that makes them accessible, relatable, and hopeful, rather than overwhelming.
I would start with what the children already know using the birthday introduction from module 1. Then I would frame climate change through stories and visuals. To make the facts hands on I would use simple experiments again like
Weather detectives from module 1. It would be nice for the children to connect globally by sharing facts and in all lessons I would emphasise the solutions (recycling , renewable energy).-
Hi Ciara,
Thanks for sharing.
I like your plan to share climate change information in an accessible, relatable and hopeful rather than overwhelming way! It is so easy to just focus on the negative of the narrative-the polluted world, the extinction of animals, the loss of habitat, plastic islands, etc. Through the lens of doom and gloom, the problem feels too big, and action can feel redundant.
By sharing the positives as a counterbalance, actions being taken around the world, and the changes we can see in our localities—such as solar panels, EV buses, and recycling, as you mentioned in your post —learners will begin to understand the importance of taking action and remain hopeful.
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The film HOME really shows how everything on Earth is linked together and how our actions are changing the planet. The aerial views are stunning but also a bit sad when you see the damage being done. The other clips in the module help explain climate change in a way that’s easy for kids to follow, showing not just the problems but also ways we can help. If I were teaching this, I’d start with a short clip to grab their attention and then talk about what they noticed and how it made them feel. We could do simple activities like keeping track of the weather around the school or checking soil and plant growth to see how nature changes over time. I’d have them make posters or share ideas about helping the planet so they understand what’s happening but also feel like they can do something about it.
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Hi Eve, I agree that while this video is very important, it can be quite difficult for children to watch. I think some of the other videos that focus more on positive actions would be really helpful. I also love your activity ideas as they give the children a sense that they can make a difference, as well as build their understanding of climate change.
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The video clips in this module are very emotive and thought provoking. I feel that it is important that the senior classes, at least, are not sheltered from one of the most important issues facing our planet today. Seeing images of devastation and destruction in clips from HOME or from the Climate Aid 2020 video that can be directly linked to changes caused by human activity speak a thousand words. The children of today will have a future battle on their hands like no other, if steps are not taken today by each and every one of us. I can see how watching the moving and often upsetting images could be somewhat controversial, but it is the harsh reality that is being faced by our fellow humans today, sadly. With a senior class, following on from previous exercises in the Weather vs Climate resource, these videos should not be bringing new and possibly frightening information to the children for the first time. It would be equally important to show videos such as Greta Thunberg at COP25 in conjunction with learning about what governments are doing to tackle climate change (e.g. learning about Paris Agreement and reading the Irish Government Climate Action Plan) – it is very important for the children to know that there are people, like Greta Thunberg, who are trying to raise awareness so we can all do something to help tackle Climate Change. Greta’s closing lines were very inspirational and would help counteract any anxiety felt by the children: ‘Every great change in history has come from the people. We can start the change. We, the people.’ Calculating their own Carbon Footprint is a very interesting thing to do. It really is a bit of a reality check that may inspire the children to work with their families to lower their family’s carbon footprint…again, a very real and tangible action they can take to make a difference.
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Content: The film uses stunning aerial cinematography to show the beauty of Earth while highlighting the severe threats posed by human activities—deforestation, resource exploitation, urbanization, and especially climate change.
Message: Humanity must urgently shift to sustainable living to preserve the planet.
For Young Kids (5–8 years)
Use stories & characters: Animals, trees, or the Earth as a “friend” that needs care.
Hands-on activities: Planting seeds, recycling games, sorting trash, or making crafts from reused materials.
Simple explanations:
“The Earth is getting warmer, and that makes it harder for animals, plants, and people.”
“We can help by saving energy, planting trees, and reducing waste.”
Visuals: Drawings of Earth with a smile vs. Earth with a “fever.”
For Older Kids (9–12 years)
Science experiments: Show how ice melts faster in warm water (glacier melting).
Connections to daily life: Talk about how hot days, storms, or changing seasons are signs of climate change.
Team projects: Create posters, design eco-friendly inventions, or write a “climate pledge.”
Role models: Share kid-friendly examples like Greta Thunberg or young inventors working on solutions.
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When I watched Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s ‘Home’, I was struck by the stunning aerial images of forests, oceans, animals and people around the world. The film explains how all life is connected and how human actions, such as burning fuels, cutting down too many trees, and polluting, are damaging our planet. It also shows the effects of climate change, such as melting ice and droughts, while ending with the hopeful message that people are working together to protect nature. In my classroom, I can see ‘Home’ being a useful tool to start a conversation about caring for the Earth. However, I think the full film would be too difficult for a lot of children and instead I might choose short clips to share with the class and then guide discussion in an age-appropriate way. Depending on the class level, videos such as the Paxi ones might be more effective at helping the children to understand climate change and our role in protecting our environment.
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The video Home has a strong visual impact with a stunning shots of the Earth’s landscape, ecosystems and human settlements. It explains how human activity affects the planet—climate change, deforestation, resource depletion—in a way that’s easy to follow but still thought-provoking and how it is everyones’ story. I do think that you would have to be conscious of your class as some pupils may get anxious over some of the images and what the future holds. It is just something to be mindful of. I think I would use it as a follow on from the previous ESA activities.
I think looking at Greta Thunberg would be interesting to look at also as pupils may have heard of her or seen her on the news and it may resonate with them. She also offer some ideas as to what we can do which pupils may like having watched the video Home.
Pupils could perhaps share some facts with younger classes at assemblies.Overall I think these videos are a brilliant resource for a lesson on this topic.
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Introducing Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand to pupils is a compelling way to engage them emotionally and intellectually with the realities of climate change. The documentary combines stunning aerial visuals with a compelling narrative about the planet’s environmental state.
I would envisage it being shown to older classes and being broken up into different sections so we could examine it properly as well as using sections of it to lead inquiry-based learning in the classroom. I feel these sections would be the most beneficial to show and work on with a class; Deforestation (Amazon), Melting ice caps (Arctic/Greenland), Desertification (Africa) and Urban sprawl (Mega-cities in Asia or USA).
The class could be broken up into groups and they could each research one climate issue mentioned in the film. When Gretta Thunberg speaks you can clearly see how passionately she feels about the current climate issues and this would also be a great video to show a class as they could see someone closer to their age speaking about climate change and how it will affect the world we live in. I feel both these clips could inspire older classes to action.-
Hi Fiona,
Thanks for sharing.
You make an excellent point about this piece engaging learners emotionally and intellectually. It can be interesting for the class to reflect on how the topic of climate change is best conveyed to them to spark their interest and prompt action in their own lives-through art, personal stories, local impacts, facts and graphs, etc.
The video is an excellent springboard for further learning, with a wide variety of topics that can be explored further in groups.
Greta is a remarkable role model, reminding us all of the importance of taking action. Her courage and passion are shared by many others, and here in Ireland, there are plenty of environmental activists coming up the ranks. Here are some local examples: ‘A world with climate justice is a better world’: Meet the young Irish people fighting for the environment
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I really like your idea of breaking Home into sections for older classes. It makes such a complex topic much more manageable and gives pupils a chance to focus on each issue in depth. I also agree with you that showing Greta Thunberg’s clips is inspiring. Seeing someone close to their age speak so passionately about climate change can really motivate pupils to take action themselves.
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The documentary ‘Home’, directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, is a powerful and visually striking resource that highlights how human activities are damaging the planet. The aerial footage captured across different countries allows the film to contrast the beauty of Earth with the environmental destruction caused by human impact. It conveys a very strong message about the urgency of taking action against climate change.
This was my first time seeing *Home*, and I found it very impressive. I can see its value in the classroom, though I would use it with care. While the film is highly effective, some of its content may feel overwhelming for my fourth class.
To introduce the topic, I would begin with a short discussion: *“What do you already know about Earth’s beauty? How do human actions affect it?”* After this, I would select key segments of the film—such as the disappearing ice caps to spark visual awareness and guide meaningful conversation. Together, we would reflect on humanity’s impact on the planet and consider ways to reduce or improve it.
Following the discussion, students could work in small groups to create posters, carry out mini-research projects, or write short reports on how to help the environment. This not only deepens their understanding but also empowers them to see that their actions matter. As an extension, groups could collaborate on a whole-school presentation, focusing on a specific issue highlighted in the film, such as water usage, farming practices, or deforestation in a whole school assembly-
HI Nicola,
Thanks for sharing.
It certainly is a powerful piece of work, and like you say, it conveys a very strong message about the urgency of taking action against climate change. As it is your first time watching it, I am sure it was very impactful. Educators play such an important role in sharing climate change information with the next generation, and I think this piece alone is a powerful motivator to engage with the topic in the coming academic year.
Lovely idea to elicit prior knowledge as an introduction to the topic with thought-provoking questions, watching snippets from the film and subsequently working in groups to deep dive into the topics it touches on.
It’s great to make it locally relevant at this point, where possible. Wonderful to take action and broadcast these issues at a whole school assembly too! It’s a message that needs to be spread far and wide.
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I agree completely. ‘Home’ is a powerful and visually stunning film that makes a strong case for addressing climate change. You’ve hit on a crucial point: while the documentary is incredibly effective, it’s essential to use it with care, especially with younger students.
Your approach of using a short discussion to introduce the topic and then selecting key, age-appropriate clips is a brilliant way to make the content digestible without overwhelming them. By focusing on specific issues like disappearing ice caps, you can guide them toward meaningful conversations about humanity’s impact.The follow-up activities you’ve planned, like creating posters, conducting mini-research, and even preparing a whole-school presentation, are fantastic. These projects empower students by showing them that they can make a real difference and that their actions truly matter. You are turning a visually impactful resource into a transformative learning experience.
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The documentary Home, is a striking resource that highlights both the beauty of Earth and the damage caused by human activity. Through powerful aerial imagery, it conveys the urgency of addressing climate change, though some scenes may be overwhelming for younger pupils if not selected carefully.
To introduce the topic, I would begin with a class discussion on what children already know about Earth’s beauty and how humans affect it. Selected clips—such as melting ice caps or expanding cities—could then spark reflection and dialogue.
In groups, pupils could create posters, reports, or short projects suggesting ways to protect the planet. These activities not only deepen understanding but also encourage pupils to see themselves as active participants in positive change. A larger project, such as a school presentation on themes like water use, farming, or deforestation, could further extend the learning.
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Hi Cian
It is important to elicit what the learners know about Climate Change as this may influence the clips or extracts from Home that you could show the pupils. I agree that it is important to highlight to the learners that they themselves could be active participants in change as you have said. A larger project could involve collaboration with other classes in the school to promote this also.
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I found the various videos in this module very interesting, with some of them being more suitable for use in school than others.
‘Home’ is effective in giving a broad overview of climate issues with very impactful footage, for example of the Jordan river or the huge cattle farms. Because of its length and the fact that it is through English (I teach in a Gaelscoil) I think I would short select sections to illustrate points that the children are interested in. Some of the language would be challenging for them also.
I think the Greta Thunberg speech would be ideal for sixth class and could be incorporated into an English lesson on persuasive writing and debating. Her use of emotive language as well as the pace of delivery are excellent. Being a teenager in this video the children might relate to and feel inspired by her to challenge the adults in their lives!
I found the Climate Aid video upsetting in places so would approach with caution with a class… however it is very effective in illustrating the harm we are causing the planet and wildlife in particular.
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The documentary “Home”offers a striking, bird’s-eye view of our planet, showing how everything in nature is connected and how human actions are affecting the Earth. Its stunning visuals and narration highlight the urgent need to address climate change, but also leave room for hope if we act now. I find “Home” and similar videos effective for teaching environmental topics, especially to older primary students who are beginning to understand global issues.
In my classroom, I’d introduce these ideas gradually—starting with short videos and open discussions. I’d begin with everyday topics students can relate to, like local pollution or changes in weather, and then link those to wider global problems. Using visuals like those in “Home” helps students feel a stronger emotional connection to the topic, making the science behind climate change easier to understand and remember. This approach encourages curiosity, empathy, and a sense of responsibility.
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Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s HOME is a breathtaking documentary that captures our planet’s fragile beauty and the damage caused by human activity. Its sweeping aerial shots of melting glaciers, rising seas, disappearing forests, and vulnerable ecosystems provide a powerful visual starting point for children to see how human choices shape the world around them. Alongside this, Greta Thunberg’s COP25 speech reminds us with clarity and urgency that time is short, and that bold action is needed now. In the classroom, I would begin with short, simple clips from HOME to spark awe and awareness, followed by Greta’s words to connect feeling with facts. Together, these resources balance hope with urgency, helping pupils recognise that they are part of a living system. By linking global challenges to small, local actions such as caring for our classroom and school grounds, students can begin to see how meaningful change starts with them.
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Showing Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand to students is a great way to get them thinking and feeling more connected to what’s really going on with climate change. The film has amazing aerial shots and a strong message about the state of the planet, which makes it both interesting and eye-opening. I’d use it with older classes and break it into smaller sections so we can take time to really look at each part. Some of the most useful sections to focus on would be deforestation in the Amazon, melting ice in the Arctic and Greenland, desertification in Africa, and the growth of mega-cities in places like Asia or the US. Students could work in groups, with each group digging deeper into one of these issues.
It would also be really powerful to show a clip of Greta Thunberg speaking. She’s passionate and close (relatively speaking) in age to the students, so they might relate to her and be inspired by what she says. Between the documentary and Greta’s message, I think students would be encouraged to care more and maybe even take action themselves.
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The film HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a visually stunning yet deeply unsettling documentary that highlights the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the planet. Through breathtaking aerial shots, the film emphasizes both the beauty of nature and the fragility of our environment. It makes clear that climate change, deforestation, overconsumption, and pollution are not isolated issues, but global challenges with long-term consequences. The additional video clips in this module complement HOME by breaking down climate change concepts into accessible explanations, showing both the scientific background and the human dimensions of the crisis.
If I were to introduce these facts to my pupils, I would begin with visual materials like short clips or images from HOME to spark curiosity and emotional engagement. I would then guide them to reflect critically by asking questions such as: “How does this affect us?” and “What can we do in our community?” Finally, I would connect the global issues to local examples—such as waste management, energy use, or biodiversity in their own surroundings—so they understand that climate change is not distant, but relevant to their daily lives. This combination of visuals, discussion, and practical links can empower pupils to see themselves as agents of positive change.
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The film Home is a stunning piece of work that combines breath taking imagery of our planet with a clear and urgent message about the impact of human activity on the environment. The visuals alone would capture the imagination of primary pupils, making it a great entry point into discussions about caring for the Earth. I think children respond well to stories told through powerful images, and this film gives them a chance to see both the beauty of nature and the consequences of neglecting it.
In class, I would introduce excerpts rather than showing the entire film, focusing on sections that highlight forests, oceans, and human settlements. These could link directly to SESE topics such as natural habitats, renewable energy, or climate. For Art, children could create drawings or posters inspired by scenes in the film, showing both the positive and negative sides of human impact.
To make the message more child-friendly, I would use role play activities like “climate reporters” where pupils present what they have learned to their classmates or even at assembly. I would also integrate Maths by having children record local weather data and compare it to patterns shown in the videos. Greta Thunberg’s clips would provide a great follow-up, showing that even young people can have a voice in shaping the future. This could inspire pupils to write letters, create campaigns, or suggest sustainable actions for the school, such as recycling or saving energy.
By combining film, discussion, and hands-on projects, pupils would see climate change not just as a distant problem but as something they can help tackle in small but meaningful ways.
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Hi Renee.
Welcome to the course. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the documentary Home. I agree that you should choose clips or excerpts that are suitable and relevant to your class. This would link with lessons or units of work in the class and allow for project work also.
I like how you are planning for activities such as climate reporters that allow for creativity and multiple ways for students to show their learning and also take action as they suggest sustainable actions for the school, at home or even in their local community. As you have said it is important to ensure the students can suggest meaningful ways to tackle climate change.
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The film “Home” is a powerful and emotional look at our planet’s beauty and the environmental damage it faces. Its thought-provoking visuals would resonate with children.
For younger students, I’d introduce the concept of climate change gently, focusing on the broader theme of taking care of our world. I’d use short, age-appropriate clips from the film and other videos to spark discussions. We could then explore these ideas through hands-on activities like drawing, storytelling, and simple experiments.
The goal is to help them feel a personal connection to nature and understand that even small actions can have a big impact. I’d also link the content to things they see every day, like local weather changes, litter at school, or how they get to class. By making it relevant and age-appropriate, they will feel inspired to protect the Earth and understand that their choices matter.-
I agree Renee, the film could not be used alone in order to deliver the message to primary school children. I love the idea of Drama activities exploring the children’s reporting and sharing what they have learned.
We have written letters to local companies and local politicians through our green school initiatives, and I find this is a very useful tool to get full engagement and investment from the pupils on different environmental issues.
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I like how you’d use short clips and link them to everyday things like litter or local weather . It makes climate change relatable for children. Using drawing and storytelling is a great way for them to connect and feel inspired. Focusing on small actions really helps them see that they can make a difference.
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I would not feel comfortable showing ‘Home’ in my primary school classroom. I found it difficult and heartbreaking myself as an adult, and I think it would be very difficult for many children to watch, even in the senior end. However, there are some amazing parts that could be shown as short clips, that highlight the beauty and the fragility of our planet.
There are better ways to instill this knowledge in our young children. Helping them and guiding them to love and respect their own locality and its biodiversity is very important and can be a very enjoyable experience. Taking part in the Green School initiative is another great way to develop the children’s knowledge of our planet’s strife, as well as developing a sense of global citizenship and a positive approach.
I also feel that an optimistic message without a fear factor is much more appropriate for our primary school children. While the stark reality of the climate change crisis needs to be shared and shown to our children, I believe there are better more positive and hands-on approaches that work far better than showing a 90 minute movie, despite the amazing cinematography.
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Your point about focusing on a positive, hands-on approach is good. It’s so important to build a love for nature and a sense of responsibility without relying on fear. Showing clips of the beauty in Home while engaging with projects like the Green School initiative would be a great way to empower children to become good stewards of the environment.
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I found the film HOME and the other video clips in this module really powerful. The images in HOME are stunning but also a bit shocking at times – they make it very clear how human activity is changing our planet. I think this visual approach is so effective because pupils often understand things more deeply when they can actually see the impact rather than just hearing about it. The shorter clips, like Paxi on greenhouse gases, are also great because they break big scientific ideas down into simple, child-friendly explanations.
With my pupils, I would introduce these facts step by step. First, I’d show a short clip to spark curiosity and discussion, then follow it up with a practical activity, like measuring our own energy use or recording local weather patterns. For younger pupils, I’d focus on small, positive actions they can take – like reducing waste or saving energy – so they don’t feel overwhelmed. For older pupils, I’d use the videos as a starting point for projects, such as creating posters, writing news reports, or even making their own short awareness.
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These two pieces can be powerful tools for teaching children about climate change, but they need to be introduced carefully to make the message empowering rather than scary.
Before showing the film, you could start with a discussion about what the word “home” means to them. Talk about their own home, their street, their town, and then expand to the planet as a whole. Ask questions like, “What does our planet’s ‘home’ look like?” and “What kinds of things do we need to take care of our home?”
When watching the film, it’s best to do it in short segments. The film is long, and some scenes can be intense. After each segment, you could pause and discuss what they saw. Focus on the positive and beautiful parts first, like the amazing animal life and different landscapes. When the more concerning images appear (like pollution or deforestation), frame them as “what happens when we forget to take care of our home.” This helps connect human actions to the visual outcomes without overwhelming them.
The great Tungberg speech is very direct and emotional, which can be intense for some children. It’s best to introduce it after some foundational lessons on climate change. Start by explaining who Greta is—a young person, just like them, who decided to use her voice to make a difference.
Instead of playing the whole speech, you could show a shorter, edited clip or read parts of it. Before you do, explain the context: she was speaking to world leaders, people in charge of making big decisions. This helps them understand why she’s so passionate and a little angry. Focus on key phrases like “the eyes of all future generations are upon you” to spark a conversation. The goal is to show them how a single person can have a powerful voice and inspire others to act.
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HOME
The film HOME by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a depiction of Earth from the planet’s beginning to now. It shows how we are all interconnected and how humans are the driving force behind all the destruction and changes to our world.
There are some fascinating statistics listed in this film on energy consumption which I think children would be surprised by, however I think this is mainly a resource aimed at the older classes. It would also depend on the class as this film would not be suitable for all.
Ireland’s Climate Plan video would be a good discussion point for children, to look at the aims for the country and to discuss how we, as a class are meeting these and what we could do as a school community to improve awareness.
Climate World 2020 video would be used as a starter prompt for a climate action project, children would choose a topic to research based on what stood out to them on viewing this video.
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I thought this video was excellent. I really believe children will find it interesting and engaging. I particularly like their use of the phrase, ‘The engine of life is linkage.’ It emphasizes that everything on Earth is interconnected, and for the planet and its inhabitants to thrive, we must all work together for the benefit of everyone. The video also highlights the changes over time—from the early days of Earth, when resources like water were abundant, to the present, where the growth of large cities has contributed to water shortages. The rapid rate of deforestation and its negative impact on the atmosphere was particularly alarming. The video also pointed out the effects of palm oil production on the Amazon rainforest. Another powerful area that was highlighted was deforestation. This really highlights the urgency of protecting our planet. Overall, the video is a compelling warning about the potential consequences if we fail to take action now and I feel it is important to highlight these issues to the next generation. In terms of introducing a lesson on climate, I would begin with activities from Module One on Weather and Climate, gradually building the children’s understanding of the atmosphere, its importance, and our responsibility to protect it. The ‘Paxi’ video can serve as a follow-up lesson, helping students further grasp the significance of the atmosphere and the concept of climate. This video will also act as a starting point for discussions on climate change facts. We can begin by brainstorming what the children already know about climate change and what they are curious to learn and progress through from there.
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The documentary Home is a visually striking and thought provoking film. I found it both beautiful and unsettling as it captures the incredible diversity of our planet while also highlighting the severe damage caused by human activity. The aerial views and storytelling make the environmental message very powerful and I think pupils would be both engaged and challenged by it. What stood out to me most was the clear link between our everyday choices and their impact on climate change, deforestation and overconsumption.
In introducing these ideas to pupils I would use short age appropriate clips from Home and the other videos in the module as discussion starters. For younger classes I would focus on simple positive actions like taking care of nature, reducing waste or noticing changes in our local environment. Activities such as drawing, poster making and group projects would allow pupils to express their understanding creatively. For older students I would incorporate data collection such as using a weather station and discussions around climate change in the news to make the topic real and relevant. My goal would be to help pupils see that their actions can make a genuine difference in caring for the Earth.
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The film HOME is a beautiful and powerful way to show how people and nature are connected. It uses amazing aerial pictures to explain big problems like climate change, deforestation, and loss of animals. The other videos in this module help explain these ideas in simple ways that children can understand.
To introduce these facts to the students in my class, I would start with a KWL chart. First, we list what we know about the planet and climate, then what we want to learn. After watching the videos, we fill in what we learned. This helps pupils organise their thinking.
After that, I would do an art activity called a “Planet Poster,” where pupils draw or paint what they love about the Earth and ways to protect it, like trees, animals, or clean rivers. This would help the children connect with nature and understand their role in caring for the planet.
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Home is a captivating video which really reinforces the importance of us being actionable against climate change. I do feel the video might be a little scary for 9 year olds. I’d play parts of it and use picturebooks to scaffold the same message.
There a fab picturebooks that explain it in a child friendly way. It is a very important and relevant topic and something I hope to teach more of this year.
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Home is a thought-provoking and beautifully filmed video that highlights the urgency of addressing climate change. It delivers a powerful message about the impact our choices have on the planet and the responsibility we share to take action. While the video is visually stunning and informative, I do feel that some of its imagery and tone could be a little overwhelming for younger children, especially those in 3rd class. Because of this, I would consider showing only selected sections that are age-appropriate, rather than the entire film.
To support the same ideas in a way that feels more accessible, I would also integrate picture books into my lessons ( you can probably see from my posts that im obsessed with picture books for supporting stem and sese). There are many excellent titles that explain the concept of climate change and caring for the Earth in a child-friendly and engaging way. Books such as The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, Somebody Swallowed Stanley by Sarah Roberts, and Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers encourage children to think about the environment in ways they can understand and relate to. This approach makes the message both meaningful and memorable. It is an important and timely topic, and one I intend to explore more deeply with my 3rd class this year.
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