Middle School Blends Curriculum and Activism to Combat Climate Crisis

Grades 7 and 8 participated in the second annual Climate Action Day, dedicated to applying concepts learned in math and science classes to environmental issues within the larger New York community. Led by Science Department Chair Dr. Shayri Greenwood and Math Teacher Rachelle Scolari, the program motivates middle schoolers to apply their learnings in tangible ways to become better informed climate activists. Topics from the activities ranged from building a model solar passive Annex space to measuring carbon sequestration via sampling trees in Stuyvesant Square Park to understand the role they play in the carbon cycle. Students were also exposed to examining and researching the efficiency of gas versus electric cars using mathematical equations. Last summer, Dr. Greenwood and Rachelle teamed up with science teacher Elizabeth Lipshutz to integrate the project more fully into the Middle School curriculum for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The day kicked off with Middle Schoolers breaking out into groups to tackle various hands-on projects. Some Grade 7 science students designed solar passive buildings. After a deep dive into architectural design and solar emission qualities in class, they used the day to build 3D models with solar panels and increased shading, reimagining everyday materials with the knowledge they have learned in math, science and art. They then created a slideshow of their completed buildings showcasing the various designs and their savvy components including trombe walls, solar panels, and green roofs. 

Across the street in Stuyvesant Square Park, other groups of seventh graders completed scale drawings and identified, measured, and examined the quality of the park’s trees. This data will be used to calculate how much carbon is being stored in the park, connecting to the carbon cycle which was studied in science class. In the future, this important information will be presented to the Stuyvesant Square Park Neighborhood Association (SPNA) and the broader community to show the true value of our public parks beyond their beauty. 

Back in the classroom, eighth graders were analyzing the cost of electric versus gas vehicles in New York state. Students researched different cars and used their knowledge of systems of equations to determine the cost effectiveness of electric cars.

Claire Brennan ‘09, former Friends teacher and activist, who currently works at the Department of Transportation wrapped up the day with a keynote presentation. She spoke of her work in creating greener spaces and more access to roads for all New Yorkers by building bicycle infrastructure and supporting the implementation of “Green Wave,” which is a city-wide plan to create safe biking spaces in the city. 

Next year teachers hope to bridge this interdisciplinary project more fully into the arts and technology, continuing to work alongside more teachers, alumni, faculty, staff, and activists in our community. The School looks forward to continuing this important Middle School project!