This information-based learning unit may be used for group, whole-class, or individual study. It is a comprehensive study unit on the environment; as such, one of its primary objectives is to introduce youngsters to basic concepts about ecology and environmental problems. Another basic objective is to instill in the students an appreciation for the value of all living creatures and for Earth itself. Students learn the importance of long-term global goals so that they, their children, and their children's children will have a safe, healthy planet on which to live. Another important objective is the development of crucial critical- and creative-thinking skills. The activities were specifically designed to encourage divergent thinking, flexibility of thought, fluent production of ideas, elaboration of details, and originality. Grades 4 through 8