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Overpopulation is a topic that not only affects us humans, but also the world around us. This is a problem that can greatly affect our future. The human population is growing at such a rapid pace, and we do not have the resources to sustain them. In my digital artifact, I will discuss some great resources that can be used in the classroom for both students and teachers in order to enlighten the youth about this impactful issue.

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Why is it important to teach about overpopulation?

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Why is it important to teach about overpopulation?

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This is a very important  issue that needs to be taken more seriously. We as humans are reproducing at such an extensive rate that the world around us literally can not keep up. The resources that we use and the space are not enough to sustain our needs. Students are not aware of the fact that if we keep going at the rate that we are, then we will eventually run out of these resources. The amount of waste we are producing is excessive and our oceans are being contaminated. If the younger generation is more aware, then they are able to take precautions and change the future.

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The topic I have chosen is something that I do not think many people really consider, but has always been a concern for me. I am born and raised in Arizona, and I remember when Gilbert was all farmland. Now, it is a lot of residential areas, businesses, and other recreational spots. Arizona overall has grown a considerable amount, which means the population here has escalated quickly. I have noticed more traffic, people, businesses, etc. I will be exploring the topic of overpopulation, not only in the United States but also the world. Overpopulation correlates with sustainability in a huge way. The more people there are, the more resources are being used. These resources that we use everyday cannot keep up with the amount of people that are coming into the world.

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I have created a five day lesson plan for a 6th grade audience that will stimulate values thinking. The expectation of the lesson is for students to be aware of the causes and effects of overpopulation. The students will be researching the topic. They will learn the causes, effects, and solutions to the issue.

The lesson integrates the following standards:

Science- Strand 4. Concept 3. PO 2. Describe how the following environmental conditions affect the quality of life: water quality, climate, population density, smog

Writing-  6.W.2  Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.
a. Introduce a topic; organize ideas, concepts, and information, using strategies such as definition, classification, comparison/contrast, and cause/effect; include formatting (e.g., headings), graphics (e.g., charts, tables), and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.

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It is important for students to understand the basics and the meaning of overpopulation. The following picture book is a great way for students to begin learning about the main purpose of the whole lesson. It contains the definition of overpopulation, some causes, and two negative effects. It is short and informational. Students can then “think, pair, share” some thoughts about the book. When finished, a class discussion will partake. This day is to prepare students for the next four days.

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"Overpopulation" - Free Books & Children's Stories Online | StoryJumper

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Overpopulation is the situation in which too many people or animals live in one area and can be dangerous. An example of overpopulation can be s...

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On Day 2, the lesson begins with a short six minute video that gets more in depth about overpopulation. The video consists of the history, timeline, and beneficial facts. At this time, students should write down at least 15 facts on a sheet of paper. After the video, students will get into groups and share their discoveries. When the video is finished, students will partner with a shoulder partner and "think, pair, share". At this time, students can reflect what they learned with a partner. The teacher will then have each student share one of their interesting facts with the class. Next, there will be a class discussion about why this is an issue, and how this can impact us in the present and futuristically. At this time, futures thinking will be incorporated. The goal for the day is to get a more in depth understanding of the unit.

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Overpopulation – The Human Explosion Explained

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Day 3 will begin by having the students interact with an online simulator. The Population Simulator is to see the reaction of what happens when we insert herbivores, and carnivores. If the ratio of herbivores to carnivores is off, then overpopulation can happen. Students will be able to interact and change the population to see the effects.

After the simulation activity, students will pair up and work on a concept sort provided by the teacher. Students will be given four cause and effect scenarios which need to be arranged in the correct order. When finished, teacher should assure students are correct and understand the concept at this time. This activity will allow students to strategically thinking about the causes and effects of overpopulation.

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We have "overpopulation" when living creatures reproduce themselves so quickly that resources and the space are not enough to sustain their needs. But, when overpopulation started? In our case,...

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Students should have a basic understanding of what overpopulation is and the impacts of it by Day 4. They will create a cause and effect concept map. A concept map is a great way for students to address their thinking process and organize their notes. It also may help the teacher check for understanding. By the end of the day, student should know the causes and effects of overpopulation and be able to present it in a concept map.

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There are many different precautions to take in order to help prevent overpopulation. On the last day, students will pair up and will research some solutions to overpopulation. This allows futures thinking to take place. Students, as a pair, will then make a poster on a solution of their choice. They will need to present facts and strong evidence onto why this will help the issue using poster board. Students will present their solutions to the entire class. By the end of day five, the student should have a greaterunderstanding of what overpopulation is, the causes and effects, and some solutions.