Social EMotional Learning Activity

Students Sue the State of Montana (Video & Activity)

Overview

This activity is designed to teach students how they can create powerful change in their communities. This is done by highlighting the the legal action taken by Montana students against the state due to climate change inaction. This activity offers a powerful opportunity to integrate social emotional learning (SEL) into the classroom. This approach can effectively engage students in exploring their emotions, critical thinking, and fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Video Presentation (3 minutes)

Show the video about students in Montana suing the state over climate change inaction. You can access the video here.

2. Individual Reflection Questions (15-20 minutes)

After watching the video, pass out the reflection worksheet. The questions on the worksheet are:

Emotional Awareness: After becoming inspired by the film, Chasing Ice, Mica wrote a letter with his family to their state Senator about the need to take action on climate change. How does that make you feel?

Critical Thinking: Why do you think these students decided to take action and sue the state? Prompt them to consider the motivations and reasons behind the students' actions.

Responsible Decision-Making: What actions can you take in your own community to address climate change? Promote a sense of agency and responsibility among students by discussing actionable steps.

3. Partner Discussion (20-30 minutes)

Give your students one or more of the following prompts:

• Share your feelings about the video with your partner. How are your emotions similar or different?

• Brainstorm ideas together. How can you, as a team, contribute to addressing climate change in your school or community?

• Imagine you were in the shoes of the students from Montana. What challenges do you think they faced, and how would you have felt?

• What can you learn from the students in Montana about resilience and determination?