Earth Day Numbers 2015

Earth day takes place every year on April 22nd. It began in 1970. Here are some fill in the gap sheets in various formats. Versions with simplified language are included. The A/B sheets allow partners to take turns either asking and answering how many questions or just reading and writing the answers.

A more interesting method is for the teacher to write all the numbers on the board. Students receive blank lists. Choose a student randomly and that student guesses an answer, eg "I think 2,300 countries celebrate Earth Day." The teacher gives feedback and if a guess is illogical gently point it out. "Are there 2,300 countries in the World? I think there are a lot less." Repeat choosing a student randomly each time. When a correct answer is given erase the number from the board. Keep going until the board is clean. If desired a sense of urgency can be acquired by timing the whole process. Or a verbal time limit could be agreed before hand.

Notes:

Figures are from the following sources:

World Wildlife Fund Living Planet report 2014
The Guardian: Earth has lost half of its wildlife in the past 40 years, says WWF
Millions lack safe water
Water Facts