Art Lesson for Earth Day: Using Art to Promote Environmental Justice

 Art Lesson for Earth Day: Using Art to Promote Environmental Justice

Created by Joshua Y'Barbo on 13 May 2024 via https://5minutelessonplan.co.uk/


As an artist for the TEAM LEWIS Foundation, I constantly research the intersection of the creative and communication industries and significant global, sustainable concerns. Last month, I explored the connections between art and Earth Day. After finishing an article highlighting art and environmental justice, I created a lesson plan for those interested in teaching how art can promote a sustainable future.



Big Picture

This lesson explores how art can be used to advocate for environmental justice, raise awareness about climate issues, and inspire action. Students will engage in various art forms to visually represent and tell stories about environmental challenges and solutions.


Objectives

• Understand the role of art in promoting environmental justice

• Learn how art can raise awareness and inspire action on climate issues

• Engage in creative activities to visualise solutions to environmental problems


Stickability 

• Art as a tool for advocacy

• Visual representation of environmental issues

• Inspiration for action through art


Adaptability 

For SEN students, provide visual aids and simplify instructions. Fast progressors can be challenged with more complex art tasks. Students needing support can work in smaller groups with extra guidance. EAL learners can benefit from visuals and interactive activities to aid understanding.


Assessment for Learning 

Assessment activities include:

• Students presenting their artwork and explaining the message behind it

• Quiz on key concepts discussed during the lesson


Keywords

Art, Climate Justice, Visual Representation, Advocacy, Environmental Issues, Action, Storytelling


Literacy/Numeracy

Students will enhance literacy skills by writing narratives or descriptions for their artwork. Numeracy skills can be incorporated through measurement and proportion exercises in drawing tasks.


Resources

Paints, Paper, Brushes, Visual Examples of Climate-Related Artwork, Storytelling Prompts


Learning Episodes

Introduction (10 minutes)

Introduce the theme of 'Art for Climate Justice'. Discuss the importance of visual storytelling in advocating for environmental issues. Show examples of artwork related to climate change.


Main Activity (20 minutes)

Engage students in hands-on activities, such as drawing or painting, where they create artwork based on a specific environmental challenge or solution. Encourage discussions on the emotions and messages portrayed in their art.


Reflection and Sharing (15 Minutes) 

Conclude the lesson by having students share their artworks with the class, emphasising the values and messages they have conveyed. Facilitate a discussion on how art can be a powerful tool for climate justice campaigns.


Additional Resources


Action toolkit available here

Social Media toolkit available here



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