It may seem reasonable to expect teachers to use a naturalized space with students but the fact is teachers are extremely busy.  They feel the pressures of adhering to the curriculum and preparing students for exams.  Anything that appears to be adding to an already hectic schedule is often not met with enthusiasm.  The solution is to find ways to use the naturalized area that meets identified curriculum goals.  With a little creativity it is possible to make connections with each grade level, in many subject areas, throughout the school year.  Teachers need to see that using the naturalization project enhances their delivery of the curriculum.

In the planning stages of the project, identifying curriculum connections serves two purposes.  First, it sets the stage for student involvement in the actual steps.  For instance, one of the units in the Alberta Curriculum for Grade 4 Science is ‘Light and Shadow,’ so it would be appropriate to have these students mapping the light and shadow patterns on their school property to determine which plants can be planted where.  The entire naturalization process is rich with activities that connect students with the work that transforms their school ground.  It is this hands-on involvement that creates the sense of ownership and responsibility so important to the success of the project.  For more suggestions click here.

Second, by identifying ways teachers could use the site when completed, they have an opportunity to provide input on design.  A Grade 3 teacher may ask that a number of different types of rocks be incorporated to improve her teaching of the science unit ‘Rocks and Minerals’.  By engaging teachers in the planning process, you ensure their buy-in and support and greatly increase the likelihood that they will work to incorporate the site into classroom planning.

We’ve developed a list of potential curriculum connections (specific to the Alberta Curriculum) to get you started. Click here to download a copy of this document.

'Be sure to work with school staff to expand on these ideas so the school’s educational focus is reflected in the naturalization project.  Note that funding agencies may also require this information.

If you are unfamiliar with the Alberta Curriculum, click here to see the Alberta Learning website.

For naturalization projects to be successful students must interact with the completed landscape.  This is necessary to realize the educational benefits of the project to their fullest. It is also the single most important element in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the site. 

See Schools in Action for ideas from schools that benefit from schoolyard naturalization and Resources for curriculum activities and background knowledge relevant to teachers.