In this unit, students learn about the concept of environmental challenges and that ecosystems are changing as a result of human behavior. Students make linkages between the change in the ecosystem, the underlying needs of the environment, and tie this to the concept of environmental justice. Finally, students think about how justice can be restored to the environment using technological innovations as well as other methods, making STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematical) connections. The key Restorative Justice skill students will practice is a dialogue process. Students will use this process to participate in a simulated Townhall community dialogue discussing an environmental impact issue. There is a specific focus on plastics in this sample unit.
