The Story of Earth Day

Air Date: April 22, 2013

Live Chat: April 22, 2013, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Runtime: 27:02

Civic Holiday: Earth Day

In this popular episode, we explore the history of the environmental movement in the United States and the origins of the holiday we know as Earth Day.

We value your feedback. Please click here to take a brief survey.

Discussion Questions

Before You Watch

• What does the word "environmentalism" mean to you?
• How is taking care of the environment part of being an active citizen?
• What do you think are the biggest issues facing the environment today?
• How do you help take care of the environment at home? At school? In the community?

After You Watch

• What was life like in the big cities during our early history? What kinds of problems did that lead to, and how did cities cope with these issues?
• What did the transcendentalists think about nature? How did they want people to experience nature?
• How were the national parks created? What kinds of people played a role in their creation? Can you name anyone in particular?
• How was Earth Day created?
• What are some ways you can help to take care of the environment?

Lesson Plans

• The Exchange: Should a Clean and Healthy Environment Be a Constitutional Right?

Activities

• Earth Day Bingo
• Earth Day Cootie Catchers

Civic Holiday Resources

• Earth Day