PROJECT LEARNING TREE | REDUCE UTILITY COSTS WITH iTREE

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Thanks to a collaboration with Project Learning Tree Explorers will use i-Tree Design – an online tool by the US Forest Service – to determine where to plant trees for maximum energy savings.
• Exploring Posts (14-20 years old)
• Exploring Clubs (10-14 years old)

Category

N/A

Objectives

  • Use an online tool to assess ways to reduce utility costs. 
  • Determine the best locations to plant trees around their home to maximize utility savings. 
  • Calculate monetary and environmental benefits of each potential tree.

Supplies

  • Scratch paper and pencil 
  • Computer or tablet with internet access 

Advisor Note

As you engage your post in activities each week, please include comments, discussions, and feedback to the group relating to Character, Leadership, and Ethics. These are important attributes that make a difference in the success of youth in the workplace and in life.

Activity 1

Reduce Utility Costs With iTree

Go to www.plt.org/family-activity/teaching-with-itree/reduce-your-utility-costs to access and download activity instructions. 

Plan for 45-60 minutes of activity time. 

Refer to the reflection questions below at the end of your activity. 

Advisor Note

Some sample questions are below. They are designed to help the participants apply what they have learned to their own interests. You are welcome to use these questions or develop your own questions that relate to your post or specific focus area.

Reflection

  • Which academic subjects would a person need to study to do this type of work for a career? 
  • Name two species of trees to identified or researched today. 
  • What will you do differently at home now that you’ve learned how to reduce your family’s utility costs?

Advisor and Officer review

After the meeting, address the following:

  • Identify what was successful about the meeting. 
  • Identify what needed improvement. 
  • Schedule an officer and Advisor planning meeting to prepare for the next post meeting or activity. 

 

Content for this session provided by Project Learning Tree (www.plt.org). 

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