Living in a Global Forest

Set the stage for this activity by leading a group discussion answering the following questions:

1. Where does the U.S. get its supply of wood?
2. What does the term “global forest” describe?
3. How are countries around the world connected?

Assign Worksheet 1 and Worksheet 2 and have students read the "Living Global Forest" essay in order to answer the questions.

Ask students to define and provide some examples of the types of cartoons that can be found in newspapers and magazines. Next ask students to describe and explain the purpose of political cartoons. If possible, distribute copies of 2 or 3 political cartoons for students to review. As a class, discuss the meaning and significance of symbolism in political cartoons. Distribute Cartoons and Worksheet 3 and allow students to work in small groups to complete the tasks outlined on these pages.

Begin the class by reading John Howard Payne's poem “Home, Sweet Home.” Ask students to brainstorm about what constitutes a home. On an overhead sheet or the blackboard, compile a list generated by the class of characteristics of an average home built in the year 2000, and an average home built in 1950. Lead a brief discussion on the differences and similarities of homes built during these two eras. Distribute "Homes for Sale" and Worksheet 4. Provide class time for students to write their two “Home for Sale” advertisements.

Divide students into cooperative groups. Distribute "Stepping Through the Forest", "Discussing Sustainable Management," and Worksheet 5. Although this activity is meant to be completed in groups, an optional approach is to complete Steps 1 and 2 on Stepping Through the Forest as a class so that students have a better understanding of sustainable management before they join their “think tank.” Once each group has completed its assignment, allow students the opportunity to share their suggestions with the class (Step 4).

Choose from one of three types of activity assessments: 

• Application and Integration Exercise
• Test
• Reflective Exercise