Lesson plan

Lesson Plan: Rachel Carson’s Warning on D.D.T. Ignited an Environmental Movement

In 1962, the publication of “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson set the stage for the environmental movement. Carson’s carefully researched book exposed the hazards of the pesticide D.D.T. and raised tough questions about how human behavior might damage the environment. Her work forecast some of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century. The video is useful for clarifying to students why America came to rely on D.D.T., how widely it was used, why it was banned, and how policymakers in the modern era are developing solutions for environmental management that are more congruent with the natural world.

See more

Sign up to instantly access

free resources for teachers

With 300+ short-form documentaries and dozens of educator-approved lesson plans, Retro Report brings history to life in your classroom.

Register for free to access classroom materials and student activities.

Thank you for registering!

Gift this article