Project Learning Tree

PLT provides a wealth of up-to-date resources, support, and ideas for teachers and other educators. They also offer grants to schools and youth organizations for service-learning projects. Plus,their extraordinary network of State Coordinators and certified workshop facilitators provide local assistance and community connections. 
 

“MAKE LEARNING FUN!
Use the environment to engage children in learning – both outside and indoors. Engage students in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) as they learn about the impact invasive species have on ecosystems and biodiversity.”

— PLT

https://www.plt.org/

Thistle, Utah

What grabs a young student's attention more rapidly than tales of a Ghost Town?

In 1983 Thistle, Utah was eliminated by the most costly landslide in United States history. It is estimated that the disaster cost over $200 million dollars.

This is an incredibly interesting piece of Utah history. The Thistle Landslide is a great opportunity to show children the impacts that nature can have in a direct light. There are many photos available of the remains of Thistle, and it is treated in several documentaries, including the one below. Additionally, Thistle is fairly close to home for most Utah Valley students, so while it may not be worth a class trip, students could certainly visit the ghost town with their families. 

This video is just part of a documentary. This portion focuses on Thistle, Utah and the landslide of 1983. The original documentary is found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNkJoifqcLM