Writing About Eco/Climate Emotions and Concerns
Lesson Plans
Grades9, 10, 11, 12English Language Arts
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Climate Mental Health Network
What it is
- In this lesson from Climate Mental Health Network, students explore eco-emotions through reflective writing activities that help them process feelings related to climate change.
- The guide includes structured journaling prompts and strategies that support emotional resilience while fostering self-expression and classroom dialogue around climate concerns.
Teaching tips
Positives
- Getting in touch with and processing one's emotions is an extremely important part of learning about climate change.
- Throughout this lesson, students will feel safe and supported in their climate emotions journey.
- Student will benefit from reading and hearing anout how other youth like them are feeling about climate change.
Prerequisites
- This lesson is meant to pair with discussions about climate change and its impacts.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Teachers can refer to the notes in the lesson plan for ideas to differentiate and extend based on students' needs and preferences. There is also a section for modifications for students with special needs and teachers with limited class time.
- Art teachers can utilize the creative art therapies resources in the Extension Resources section to make connections to climate change in their classes.
- Language arts classes can discuss the poetic devices used in the poetry readings and other techniques present in different writing types.
- For more tips for using the Climate Emotions Wheel, or to find translations of it, teachers can check out this resource.
From the scientist review
This resource from the Climate Mental Health Network offers a guide for educators to support students in navigating the emotional impacts of climate change. It includes practical strategies for fostering resilience, validating emotions, and solutions-oriented conversations. While it does not include original data, this resource would be a thoughtful addition to classroom discussions on climate change and mental health.
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