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My Place in My World: Literature for Place-Based Environmental Education

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Abstract

This article explores how children can learn about environmental sciences through place-based education and children’s literature. Recent studies suggest that there is a lack of environmental science knowledge among citizens of all ages. Scholars and educators recommend introducing young children to the places in which they live to create an impact on how they will view and respect the natural world as adults. Selection and use of developmentally appropriate and scientifically accurate literature can be an effective tool to help children understand their place in and connections to the natural world. Guidelines for selecting place-based literature are presented using the Midwest United States as an example. Twelve children’s books are recommended and reviewed.

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Correspondence to Pauline Davey Zeece.

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Wells, R., Zeece, P.D. My Place in My World: Literature for Place-Based Environmental Education. Early Childhood Educ J 35, 285–291 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-007-0181-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-007-0181-8

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