Civics and Civic Engagement Lessons
These Civics and Civic Engagement Lessons are great for civics, government, political science and social studies classes. They’re also great tools individual learners and...
Overview
The White House Effect presents the story of how climate change transformed from a scientific issue to a political crisis. It reveals how early promises of action were reshaped by political pressure and economic interests, and how those decisions set the stage for the climate challenges we now face. Instead of relying on simple takeaways, the film lets history unfold in real time and invites viewers to consider the significance of those choices both in their moment and in ours today.
Journeys in Film partnered with Far Star Action Fund on a guide for teachers for discussion and activities for Grades 6-12 as well as a community discussion guide for this important multi-award winning film.
Each section in the Discussion Guides begins with key events from the film and moves to deeper, more profound questions about leadership, responsibility, and values. The goal is to understand what happened, while considering what it means for people and communities everywhere — and how each of us has a vital role to play in shaping what comes next.
This is a great film to teach with for Earth Month!
- Type: Documentary Feature Film
- Lesson Grades: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, College, Adult Learning
- Rating: NR
- Ages: 13–17, 18–24, 25+
Common Sense Media rates this film as appropriate for ages 10+Docu explores historical inaction, climate change effects.- Run time: 60–119 minutes
Where to Watch
The White House Effect is streaming on Netflix.
You can also set up a screening through the film’s website.
Learning Guide
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Part I: Are You Willing to Make Some Sacrifices?
Based on Part 1 of the film
Subject: Civics, Community Service Learning, Economics, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Government, Social Studies
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Part II: Which George Bush Am I Looking At?
Based on Part 2 of the Film
Subject: Civics, Economics, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Government, Social Studies
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Part III: Is Science for Sale?
Designed to be used with Part 3 of the film
Subject: Civics, Economics, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Government, Political Science, Social Studies, U.S. History
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Part IV: What Is Nature Doing to Us?
Corresponds with 20 minutes of Part 3 of the film
Subject: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Science
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Post-Viewing Reflection
Subject: Civics, Community Service Learning, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Film Literacy
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Exploring the Climate Emotions Map
Subject: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
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How to Provide Hope
Subject: Civics, Community Service Learning, Current Events, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Government, Health, Social Emotional Learning, Social Studies
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What Now? Turning Awareness into Action
Subject: Civics, Community Service Learning, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Service Learning
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Resources for Teachers
Subject: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
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How to Determine if Information is Accurate
Subject: Civics, Media Literacy, Social Studies
Guide for Grades 6-12 (Designed to be used with segments of the film)
Community Discussion Guide / Film Guide
Designed for Adult Film Groups and Community Action Groups focused on the Environment
This discussion guide includes a brief introduction and four different sections corresponding to key parts of the film, discussion questions for after a screening of the film, expansion activities, ideas for moving from awareness to action, and additional resources.
Download Community Discussion Guide
Preview Community Discussion Guide
Group Discussion Facilitation Guidelines
These tips can help you create safe space for classroom engagement on the themes and subjects of this film.
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