Leigh Kohlmann brings 30+ years of passion for teaching science to middle school students in Wisconsin. She thrives on their energy, renewed sense of curiosity and inclination towards seeking justice. Leigh promotes science as one of many ways of knowing by facilitating local, state, and national workshops. When not in the classroom, Leigh enjoys actively serving her community.
In this lesson, students learn about metaphors through an analysis of the phrase "canary in the coal mine" and its connection to sentinel species. Students create original metaphors, connect environmental warning signs to human communities, and reflect on how this understanding can inspire climate action and promote environmental justice.
Inquire: Students explore the meaning of metaphors by using a flowchart to compare one thing to another and stating their shared qualities.
Investigate: Students investigate the historical origins of the “canary in the coal mine” metaphor and learn about sentinel species.
Inspire: Students investigate sentinel species, create metaphors to explain their role, connect them to vulnerable human communities, and reflect on how these warnings can inspire climate action.
