The Guardian view on natural history: children need to know

With or without a new GCSE, pupils must be taught to think about life on EarthThe lockdown edition of the BBC ’s Springwatch ended on Friday, with a series of clips sent in by viewers to illustrate their wildlife enthusiasms. But the latest stage in a campaign to extend the reach of natural history beyond television schedules has only just begun. The idea for a new GCSE in the subject came from the authorMary Colwell. A publicconsultation on the proposals now being developed by an English exam board runs until July.Helping children to connect with nature is prominent among the campaign ’s aims. In recent years, a number of concerns have coalesced around the view that young people do not spend enough time outdoors. Health is one source of anxiety, particularly the rise in obesity and mental distress. Increased reliance on technology for entertainment is another. Evidence shows th at the danger from road traffic, and fear of crime, have contributed to reducing children’s freedom, particularly theopportunity to play outside or travel to school unsupervised.Continue reading...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Environment Environmental activism Schools GCSEs History History of science Biology Wildlife Natural History Museum Conservation Endangered species Endangered habitats Children Source Type: news