One Big Park: Teaching Science through Environmental Awareness

Abstract

In attempting to engage student interest in environmental issues immediately relevant to their lives, I wrote and directed a film called One Big Park about the largest urban oil field in America located in the middle of Los Angeles. The film highlights the biodiversity of the region and the idea of converting the field to park land. The viewing of the film and the accompanying curriculum are designed to inspire a passion for outdoor adventure, critical thinking, and imaginative social action.