Lesson Plans for Environment
Grades 10-12 Student Handout
Overview: Pope Francis issued the encyclical Laudato si, the first written specifically on the environment. Students will receive an overview of main points of Laudato si and understand the connection between honoring the dignity of each person, serving the poor and vulnerable, and protecting our environment.
Questions for Discussion:
• What does Pope Francis say is at the basis of our current global climate crisis?
• What suggestions does he give to fix this? Do you agree with his suggestions?
• Is there evidence to support Pope Francis’ claim that overpopulation is not an ecological problem?
• If you were asked to devise a plan for redistribution of goods to serve the world’s developing nations, what would you recommend?
• How is personal morality a major component of the solution needed to overcome environmental degradation and our current crisis?
• How has science created the current problem? What about economics? Politics?
• Do you agree that a scientific (material) solution will never be sufficient? How does faith play a role in conversations about the environment?
• What is one thing you personally can do to care for God’s creation?
Service Projects
Help others in need.
There are many opportunities to help right in your neighborhood.
Resources
Care for God’s Creation - Link
3 minute video explaining why caring for the earth is fundamental to social justice.
Pope Francis on Care for Creation - Link
Pope Francis reminds us that creation is a gift. 1.5 min video
Laudato si Q&A study guide - Link
Questions and answers for some common concerns about Pope Francis’ encyclical.
26 Key Quotes from Laudato si - Link
This article from ChurchPOP has 26 important quotes from Laudato si.
8 Quotes from Benedict XVI on the Environment - Link
Benedict XVI shows that respect for creation has always been a priority.
Catholic Climate Covenant - Link
Further resources for Laudato si and ways everyone can get involved.
Why Water Matters - Link
Infographic illustrates how lack of access to clean water is the basis of poverty.
Keep Your Promises: The Human Right to Water and Sanitation - Link
3 minute video overview shows the lack of access to clean water and sanitation around the world and here in the US.
22,000 Days Without Drinking Water - Link
Story and 4 minute video shares the story of a Bolivian community's struggle to find water and the impediments that keep them from thriving.
Dirty Water: So What? - Link
Lesson plan with activity and assessment for additional learning created by The Water Project.
Empowering the Girl Child - Link
Short video explains how providing clean water helps young girls receive an education in Africa .
Meet Florence Okomo - Link
Florence Okomo shares how a water well transformed life for her school.
The Navajo Water Access Project - Link
3.5 minute video tells the story of one community in the US that lacks clean water.
Resources for Holy Hour for Care for God’s Creation - Link
Components can also be used individually for classroom prayer or Mass petitions.
The Ancient Song Behind the Title of Laudato si - Link
The story of St. Francis’ song Canticle of the Sun, which inspired the title of Pope Francis’ encyclical.
For Parents
For additional resources by topic for parents and teachers, please click here to see our Resource page.