Learning Resources
Teach the Future
Encourage creativity, innovation, and collaboration in your classroom
Get inspired by the new ways of thinking of the twenty-first century
Bring Expo to your classroom with our curated class material (45 min)
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Bringing the World Together
Cycle-1 / Primary
Expo 2020 Dubai aims to encourage shared understanding and collaboration, as well as be a celebration of our similarities and differences. Join us in learning how you can be a part of this unique opportunity and set your goal for the future.
Bringing the World Together
Holistic Aim
To help students recognise and appreciate that we are all similar and different, and that our differences are positive.Learning Objectives
- Articulate ideas and excitement about the future Expo 2020 could help create
- Identify a personal goal for the future, and understand how by listening and connecting, we can help one another
- Describe a positive change we would like to see in our community and, by understanding the importance of listening, identify a question which could help create this change
Hosting the World in 2021
Cycle-3 / Secondary
One of the greatest perks of hosting a World Expo in Dubai is that you’ll get to experience much of the world in one place. Venture forth as you explore some of the country pavilions and their visitor journeys at Expo 2020, learning about what makes them so significant and unique.
Hosting the World in 2021
Holistic Aim
Students will learn about UAE’s participation in World Expos and its drive to become one of the developed countries that values its past but embraces the future.Learning Objectives
- Understand the role of pavilions and their importance for the UAE and other countries at World Expos
- Explore the opportunities Expo 2020 is providing to countries with the assisted and self-build pavilion scheme.
Majlis Around the World
Cycle-3 / Secondary
The UAE has much to offer the world, and the ‘majlis’ is among its most precious cultural treasures. Team up with your classmates to design a ‘majlis’ as a cultural export that can encourage dialogue and nurture tolerance and understanding around the world.
Majlis Around the World
Holistic Aim
To help students recognise that through mindful and meaningful communication, we can work together towards innovative solutions to issues that affect people all over the world.Learning Objectives
- List some aspects of tolerance and describe how these contribute to a Majlis, along with other skills and practices
- Generate and explain an outline for a Majlis Delivery Toolkit, identifying the elements of the challenge and collaborating and negotiating to agree its content
- Share ideas for how to promote Majlis Toolkits at Expo 2020 and the global benefits their Toolkits could deliver
Presenting Pavilions
Cycle-2 / Middle
World Expos are known for their awe-inspiring pavilions—and Expo 2020 is no exception. This fun-filled, card-playing lesson will teach you the pavilions of the past, including the UAE’s, as you chart the nation’s course in the World Expo timeline from participant to host.
Presenting Pavilions
Holistic Aim
Students will learn about UAE’s participation in World Expos and its drive to become one of the developed countries that values its past but embraces the future.Learning Objectives
- Understand the role of pavilions and their importance for the UAE and other countries at World Expos
- Explore the heritage and culture of the UAE through its pavilions at World Expos
The Empathy Circle
Cycle-2 / Middle
Many people assume that empathy is an experience of what others feel—but it’s also about the willingness to understand people and make the world a better place. Build a circle of empathy to empower people through the power of thought and to generate optimism about the future.
The Empathy Circle
Holistic Aim
To recognise that when we seek to understand others, and are mindful of the way we communicate our emotions and words, we are practising empathy.Learning Objectives
- Describe what it feels like to be truly listened to
- List some positive differences we might see in the world if people really listened to one another
- Share creative ideas for a ‘Majlis space’ at Expo 2020.
UAE Expo Adventure
Cycle-1 / Primary
If you are new to World Expos, buckle up! You’ll journey across time and space, from 1851 in London to 2021 in Dubai, learning about great innovations shared along the way. Chart the extraordinary journey of the UAE as a participant at previous World Expos to now hosting a brilliant World Expo of its own.
UAE Expo Adventure
Holistic Aim
Students will learn about UAE’s participation in World Expos and its drive to become one of the developed countries that values its past but embraces the future.Learning Objectives
- Understand the role of pavilions and their importance for the UAE and other countries at World Expos
- Explore the heritage and culture of the UAE through its pavilions at World Expos.
Mobility
CREATING A CONNECTED WORLD
WITH HUMANITY IN MIND
AI and Us
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Before you dedicate the song 'You Got a Friend in Me' to your AI buddy, let’s appreciate the many helpful ways it helps you navigate your everyday life. This also means giving it a set of rules for it to behave aptly for greater good.
AI and Us
Holistic Aim
To help students appreciate how artificial intelligence, blockchains and quantum physics shape our current world and could make life even better for people living in the near and distant future.Learning Objectives
- Define in simple words AI, algorithm, machine learning and deep learning
- Identify some potential future roles for AI and robotics
- Describe guiding rules that can shape how AI and robotics can contribute to a better future
AI for Wildlife
Cycle-1 / Primary
On your mark, get set, draw! This lesson will pit you against an AI machine as you attempt to sketch a cat from a verbal description, thereby shedding light on the complexity of visually identifying UAE's diverse wildlife.
AI for Wildlife
Holistic Aim
To help students appreciate how artificial intelligence (AI), blockchains and quantum physics shape our current world and could make life even better for people living in the near and distant future.Learning Objectives
- Discover that AI is how computers can make complex decisions, and that machine learning is how AI improves
- Name some of the most important species in the UAE and list some unique visual features of one species
- Explain one way in which AI might help to conserve species in the UAE
Blockchain Escape Race
Cycle-2 / Middle
Think you have mastered the art of 'Escape Room'? Think again, because, in this lesson, you'll learn about blockchains and hashes before you use that knowledge to unlock the door to your freedom.
Blockchain Escape Race
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to some of the UAE’s goals for using artificial intelligence, blockchains and other smart technologies.Learning Objectives
- Explore how the UAE is looking at blockchains as one way to make UAE the world’s leading nation
- Explain that a blockchain is a secure way to store and share information, which allows people to trust important transactions
- Explain that a hash is a way to know that two digital files are exactly the same.
Body Smart
Cycle-2 / Middle
From fitness to setting life goals, wearable technology has changed the way we make choices in our daily lives. Can you think of more ways in which smartwatches and sensors can improve our health and help us reach our goals faster?
Body Smart
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that humans can use Body Smart technologies to help them lead healthier lives, become better at sports, or help them learn.Learning Objectives
- Explore Body Smart technologies that can be used to monitor various aspects our lives, including setting goals for a healthier lifestyle, recording data on how we spend our time and helping us do things more easily
- Identify examples of how these wearables can provide information that can be used to improve our lives
- Design and build a Body Smart device prototype that solves or manages a lifestyle challenge.
Climate Change Migration
Cycle-3 / Secondary
From melting glaciers to flooding wetlands, climate change not only has transformed the face of our planet but the notion of human migration. Explore factors that can displace communities around the world, then apply innovative solutions to address these challenges.
Climate Change Migration
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that climate change can affect human migration, in both positive and challenging ways. Extreme changes in climate mean that while some areas of the world are becoming less habitable—displacing communities and leading them to migrate—other regions could become more habitable with technological advances which, in turn, enable new economic activities such as farming, agriculture, or tourism to thrive where they might not previously have been possible.Learning Objectives
- Explain how climate change can have an impact on human migration
- Describe how some communities adapt to climate change with technology
- Identify ways to address the issue of climate change and migration.
Connecting Communities
Cycle-2 / Middle
Are you on board with the Internet of Everything? Then how about a board game where you and your classmates put your knowledge to the test, creating all sorts of connections across a variety of settings, including Expo 2020 Dubai itself.
Connecting Communities
Holistic Aim
There are now more conversations between machines than between human beings. This lesson aims to introduce students to the idea that these conversations and the connections between people, things, processes and data can be used to benefit humanity.Learning Objectives
- Explain that quantum physics describes how particles behave at atomic and subatomic scale
- Describe an interactive exhibit that brings to life a natural quantum phenomenon
- Suggest other natural mysteries that ‘connecting minds’ might help to solve.
Connecting The Expo
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Step right up and take a chance at Guess That Connection—a game where you learn about the Internet of Everything and its everyday applications, including its four key elements that help create a personalised visitor experience at Expo 2020.
Connecting the expo
Holistic Aim
There are now more conversations between machines than between human beings. This lesson aims to introduce students to the idea that these conversations and the connections between people, things, processes and data can be used to benefit humanity.Learning Objectives
- Define the Internet of Everything
- Understand how the Internet of Everything can enhance personalisation of large events, thus improving the visitor experience
- Design ways that the Internet of Everything can benefit Expo 2020.
Connecting Things
Cycle-1 / Primary
What would you do if you woke up one day and discovered no one was speaking your language? This challenge forms the basis of this lesson, probing you to learn about the Internet of Things, machine-to-machine communication and more.
Connecting Things
Holistic Aim
There are now more conversations between machines than human beings. This lesson aims to introduce students to the idea that these conversations and the connections between our everyday things can benefit humanity.Learning Objectives
- Understand that machines can communicate
- Realise the potential of conversations between machines
- Explain what is meant by the Internet of Things.
Converging Innovations
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Do polar bears have a place in our future? Can blindness be cured? These are some of the questions you'll need to answer as you learn about convergent innovations and their power to solve the world's trickiest challenges.
Converging Innovations
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that humans can use convergent innovations to solve local and global challenges, with life-changing results.Learning Objectives
- Explore different aspects of science and technology and how these come together as convergent innovations
- Explain how convergent innovations can solve local and global challenges, with life-changing results, including their own suggestions
- Identify the vision, mission and values of Expo 2020 and its theme of ‘Connecting minds, Creating the Future’
- Describe our own vision, mission and values for an innovation hub.
Human 2050
Cycle-1 / Primary
Welcome to the year 2050! Discover a world where humanity and technology will work together for the benefit of everyone. Build a superhero Mom or Teacher or Doctor and dream of a world where innovations help us do things better with greater empathy for others.
Human 2050
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that humans and technology are merging together in many ways. Technology can improve and enhance our lives; it could therefore lead to many exciting possibilities in the future, but also some challenges we need to be aware of.Learning Objectives
- Explore how technology can assist humans and improve our lives
- List examples of how technology can be used to augment the human body to improve peoples’ lives
- Identify some of the challenges and limitations of technology
- Explore how human values can shape technology in a positive way.
Human Migration
Cycle-2 / Middle
If we ask you to list ten of your favourite regional dishes, chances are some of the ingredients came from other parts of the world. Sink your teeth on some meaty migration stories as you track the journeys of your favourite dishes made to reach your plate.
Human Migration
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that humans have been on the move for the past 60,000 years and will continue to do so into the future. Today, mobility is integral to 21st century life and is one of the key drivers of globalisation and commerce.Learning Objectives
- List some reasons for migration
- Explain how migration can change a region
- Identify how migration has affected Middle Eastern cuisine
- Explore some of the possibilities that migration provides.
Journey to Space
Cycle-1 / Primary
Create a giant model of the solar system and see how much paper you need to include the nearest habitable planet in the Milky Way! Then inspire visitors to a “country” in space showcasing the greatness of the UAE.
Journey to Space
Holistic Aim
To help students understand the scale of our solar system and see how it offers hope and opportunity for the future.Learning Objectives
- Know that space is extremely big but offers hope of new places to inhabit in the future
- Discover that UAE aims to be the best country in the world by 2071
- Describe a feature of an amazing ‘country in space’ that would attract visitors and residents.
Mars Space City 2117
Cycle-2 / Middle
How can human settlement on Mars help us solve some of the toughest challenges on Earth? Explore the UAE's ambitious plans to build a habitat on Mars and discover the fascinating projects that will help us get there.
Mars Space City 2117
Holistic Aim
To enable students to explore the future of mobility by examining the concept of creating a scientific city on Mars, and researching UAE’s vision to push the frontiers of knowledge and explore new worlds with the National Space Programme.Learning Objectives
- Describe the goals for the UAE Space Mission
- Explore what cities provide for their residents
- Explore what is needed for life, distinguishing between concrete and abstract elements
- Develop a plan for creating a liveable city on Mars.
Our Nano Future
Cycle-2 / Middle
Better get your magnifying glasses ready, Expo detectives, because you'll be solving one of six global mysteries using a nanotechnology idea devised by you. Don't worry, there'll be plenty of nano-sized creations to help you along the way.
Our Nano Future
Holistic Aim
To help students appreciate how the very large and very small might influence and help to create our future, from colonising the solar system or beyond, to how nano-scale and quantum properties can help create our future.Learning Objectives
- Explain that everything is made of atoms and that the nano scale describes objects that are billionths of a metre in size
- Name some natural and man-made nano-scale objects
- Describe a nano solution to a global challenge and some ways in which UAE can ensure new nanotechnology is used for good
Our Quantum World
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Quantum physics can be a tough subject to wrap your head around, but once you explore our simple explanation, you will be set to begin your journey into one of nature's most exciting frontiers.
Our Quantum World
Holistic Aim
To help students appreciate how the very large and very small might influence and help to create our future, from colonising the solar system or beyond, to how nano-scale and quantum properties can help create our future.Learning Objectives
- Explain that quantum physics describes how particles behave at atomic and subatomic scale
- Describe an interactive exhibit that brings to life a natural quantum phenomenon
- Suggest other natural mysteries that ‘connecting minds’ might help to solve.
People of Determination
Cycle-1 / Primary
Get ready to have your assumptions challenged on what People of Determination are capable of. Not only will you learn about the technologies that enhance their mobility, but also have to create new ideas that better their future.
People of determination
People of Determination
It allows students to see how determination can allow people to overcome challenges and to consider how they can show determination in their own lives. They will be introduced to some cutting-edge new technologies which are making mobility inclusive and accessible, and come up with their own ideas for the future.Learning Objectives
- Understand that people have physical limitations that could make everyday tasks difficult to do
- Explain why it is important to ensure inclusiveness for everyone
- Describe how innovation and technology can increase accessibility and ease our lives to do things that we might otherwise find challenging
- Demonstrate how the UAE empowers People of Determination
Speed of Imagination
Cycle-1 / Primary
There’s no place like home—and there’s a reason for that. In this lesson, you’ll identify the aspects that make your happy place happy, before you find out that those aspects you enjoy are likely a product of someone else’s imagination.
Speed of Imagination
Holistic Aim
Introduce the concept that imagination and emotion have a part to play in human mobility and explore the role of the human imagination in making things possible, in helping us to reach our goals, and in changing the world around us for the better.Learning Objectives
- Use our imagination to create a community of the future
- Explain that all aspects of life rely on human imagination
- Know that imagination is important for progress and innovation.
The Last Mile
Cycle-3 / Secondary
The journey your online order makes before it reaches you is fraught with all sorts of challenges. So get ready for a deep dive as you track the progress of your online delivery, from the first to the last mile.
The Last Mile
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept of the last mile and the challenges that this can present around the world, while enabling students to explore the measures that have been taken across the UAE and the world, to aid the process of water, energy and food mobility to benefit citizens.Learning Objectives
- Appreciate how many items are delivered each day worldwid
- Identify what leads to the last mile challenge in many countries
- Create a business idea that can make a social difference.
Opportunity
CREATING A BETTER, HEALTHIER AND MORE
INCLUSIVE FUTURE FOR HUMANITY
A Hyper Speed World
Cycle-2 / Middle
Act out your job in 2030 and beyond by imagining how innovations of tomorrow will come into play in a new world of futuristic careers. Need help? Just ask the trusty fortune teller.
A Hyper Speed World
Holistic Aim
Students learn about how careers will change in the future, and how automation and other developing technologies will drive that change. In order to be prepared for the world of tomorrow, students need to understand how technologies like 3D printing, VR and hyper-speed automated travel will make life easier, and shape their future working lives.Learning Objectives
- Identify the technologies that are likely to have the biggest impact on the future job market, and how they could affect day-to-day life
- Name the career sectors that are most likely to shrink and those that will grow
- Identify the skills needed to succeed in the future job market
- Identify how Expo 2020 Dubai will inspire careers of the future.
Architecture at Expo 2020
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Iconic architecture has become synonymous with World Expos. The unique designs have always tried to tell a story, and Expo 2020 Dubai is no exception. Explore how architects shape lives through their emotional and environmental design choices and impacts.
Architecture at Expo 2020
Holistic Aim
To encourage students to consider how an architect designs a building and what aspects they must consider, and also to appreciate how these design features have been used in past Expos and in Expo 2020 Dubai.Learning Objectives
- Give reasons why buildings can shape lives through their emotional and environmental design choices and impacts
- Present and justify a building design
- Articulate ideas about how building design can change when design decisions shift from function to social, cultural and environmental impacts.
Art and Culture
Cycle-2 / Middle
Whether it’s to share stories, feelings or ideas, art connects us as human beings. It crosses the boundaries of culture, language and age and brings communities together in meaningful ways. Discover how art can help you tell the stories of our time.
Art and Culture
Holistic Aim
To encourage students to think about the ways in which art connects us as human beings, no matter where we are from – particularly in terms of public art and through everyday objects which can have universal meanings and messages – but also bond us together as local communities.Learning Objectives
- Think about the ways in which art can express feelings and encourage shared experiences
- Realise that we can tell stories and share ideas through art
- Consider how art can convey important messages which initiate conversations and connections between people
- Discover how everyday items can be elevated to art and how they can serve to represent a community with pride and change people’s thinking
- Consider ways in which we can reach out to people, including young people in our communities, encouraging them to get involved with our ideas and tell their own stories through everyday objects.
Augmented Students
Cycle-2 / Middle
Here’s your chance to create immersive learning experiences in your classroom. Imagine the power of augmented and virtual reality as you dive into math and geography by exploring the tallest mountains and the deepest valleys.
Augmented Students
Holistic Aim
To inspire students to think about how we can use technology to enhance the way we learn.Learning Objectives
- Understand AR and VR
- Identify the range of experiences AR and VR will offer
- Understand the benefits of AR and VR.
Big Data, Big Art
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Have you ever painted a canvas using data? Let us show you how while exploring the remarkable ways you can express big themes and stories using big data.
Big Data Big Art
Holistic Aim
To encourage students to transform big data into visually stunning art pieces that express a theme of Digital Citizenship, in order to show how information can be shared between people using technology, to bring about positive changes and connections in our world.Learning Objectives
- Think about how art can communicate information in an exciting and aesthetically-pleasing way – being both useful and beautiful
- Be good ‘digital citizens’.
- Analyse data sets and design a public art installation using this information, considering the messages it would send to our community and the wider world, and the positive changes it could make
- Consider what data says about us and how technology can be used to share our messages in a positive way
- Discuss how data combined with art and technology can bring about positive changes and connections across the world.
Catching The Sun & Wind
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Power your environment using the environment. This lesson is all about meeting energy goals for 2050 by harnessing the power of the sun and wind. Look no further than Dubai’s grand solar park as a live example.
Catching The Sun and Wind
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that food is more sustainable when it is grown locally, and how modern farming techniques now make this possible in UAE.Learning Objectives
- Recognise that energy strategies worldwide aim to combat climate change by increasing the use of renewable energy
- Describe the goals for UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050
- Give examples of which renewable energy systems can be used in different areas around the world
- Explain how making a community more sustainable creates opportunities for young people
- Give examples of the innovative projects that have been submitted to the Expo Live Programme.
Cityzen 2030
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Warm up your vocal cords and have a glass of water ready, because you’ll be directing a podcast entitled ‘CITYZEN 2030’, where you’ll share ideas and solutions for the cities of tomorrow.
Cityzen 2030
Holistic Aim
By 2030, 60 percent of city populations will be under the age of 18. Many of the best solutions and ideas to address the biggest challenges of our times will come from the next generation of urban citizens - or ‘cityzens ’.Learning Objectives
- Explore the concept of responsible citizenship in an urban environment
- Recognise some of the challenges that cities face around the world
- Identify ways in which cities can present solutions to those challenges.
Colour Outside The Lines
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Step into the spaceship that is your imagination and time-travel to 2050, exploring the smart city life, including jobs that don’t even exist yet.
Colour Outside The Lines
Holistic Aim
Introduce the idea that innovations and developments are radically changing the types of careers and skills that will be in demand in the future.Learning Objectives
- Understand that skills can be applied to a wide variety of jobs – including those that do not yet exist
- Name career sectors most likely to expand, and the skills that are likely to be most useful
- Identify the skills needed for a range of jobs
- See that Expo 2020 can help them understand careers of the future
District 2020
Cycle-1 / Primary
If you can design the city of tomorrow, what sort of building technologies would you use? With District 2020 as a source of inspiration, let your ideas soar as you come up with amazing ways where smart technology coexists with nature.
District 2020
Holistic Aim
Introduce the concept of District 2020 as a destination for connection, creation and innovation.Learning Objectives
- Identify how to make cities a good place to live for people, the environment and the future
- Discover how District 2020 will continue the work of Expo 2020
- Use our imagination and creative skills to create a future city mural.
How Pink is Your Farm
Cycle-1 / Primary
When was the last time you tracked the carbon footprint in your lunch box? Learn how and way in this engaging lesson as you compare traditional farms with vertical pink farming.
How Pink is Your Farm
Holistic Aim
To introduce the idea that food is more sustainable when it is grown locally, and how modern farming techniques now make this possible in UAE.Learning Objectives
- Explain the differences between traditional farming and vertical pink farming
- Identify how vertical pink farming would benefit us, our community and the world, including conserving precious water, ensuring food security and creating opportunities.
Making Energy Beautiful
Cycle-2 / Middle
Unleash your creativity by creating an energy source that is both beautiful and renewable. With plenty of stunning examples to follow, you’ll also learn the amazing benefits they have over conventional-looking sources.
Making Energy Beautiful
Holistic Aim
To inspire students to think about learning as something that can happen outside a traditional classroom, and to look at the world around them as the ultimate learning experience.Learning Objectives
- Examine the world around us to design innovative learning experiences
- Produce and deliver a pitch to win investment to build a learning park
- Explore how to using innovation creatively to enhance learning and increase connectivity within communities.
Music and Tolerance
Cycle-1 / Primary
Nothing can bring the world together than through the power of music. In this lesson, you’ll have to think like a musician to figure out the ways we can spread messages of equality, tolerance and inclusivity using music.
Music and Tolerance
Holistic Aim
To encourage the students to engage with music and consider how it canbe used to bring people of various cultures together, and to communicate important messages about equality, tolerance and inclusivity.Learning Objectives
- Recognise that music can make us feel a variety of emotions
- Explore the idea that music can bring people of different cultures together
- Explore the ways in which music can promote tolerance and inclusivity
- Explore examples of music featured at past Expos and created for Expo 2020
- Write lyrics to promote equality, tolerance and inclusion
- Consider how visual elements can be used to make even more moving, and a message even clearer and more powerful by creating a simple storyboard.
The Connected City
Cycle-2 / Middle
We are all connected these days, so why not our cities? Better get your thinking tools ready because you’ll be designing a connected city made for the future. Want inspiration? Use our District 2020 master plan.
The Connected City
Holistic Aim
To show that The Connected City is a place for 21st-century life with a balanced live-play-work model.Learning Objectives
- State what a connected city is, and what the benefits are for its citizens
- Discover how the values and ideas of Expo 2020 Dubai will influence the development of District 2020
- Name some of the different job roles that are involved in developing cities
- Work together on different sections of the Masterplan for a future city, to imagine ourselves in different urban planning roles.
The Infinite Classroom
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Get ready to love your classroom all over again, because in the future it’ll become a time capsule that students can use to travel across time and space. Learn how in this reality-bending lesson and exercise.
The Infinite Classroom
Holistic Aim
To inspire students to think about the future of schools, and how technology can enhance the way we learn.Learning Objectives
- Understand what future schools might be like
- Discover that learning will use technology to make it engaging, inclusive and exciting
- Explain the new links between learning and opportunities to connect and interact with their communities.
The World as Our Classroom
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Study the weather from a Ferris wheel and learn about velocity by riding a roller coaster. Those are just two possibilities when your classroom becomes part of the world through the lens of technology. Strap in!
The World as Our Classroom
Holistic Aim
To inspire students to think about learning as something that can happen outside a traditional classroom, and to look at the world around them as the ultimate learning experience.Learning Objectives
- Examine the world around us to design innovative learning experiences
- Produce and deliver a pitch to win investment to build a learning park
- Explore how to using innovation creatively to enhance learning and increase connectivity within communities.
Tracking Trends for Good
Cycle-2 / Middle
You may have followed trends before, but have you ever actually tracked them? Embark on this journey of discovery to learn how data and patterns can create positive change in the world—and the future.
Tracking Trends for Good
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to the concept that data can be beautiful and can tell a story. The stories that data tells can be used to vastly improve the lives of individuals, communities, and even entire cities and countries.Learning Objectives
- Explain and demonstrate how to track trends to help build happier communities
- Describe how tracking trends can shape the future
- Suggest how tracking trends can help build stronger, happier communities.
Visualising the World
Cycle-1 / Primary
Does data tell our stories? Find out in this eye-opening lesson where you compare different types of data in a visual-led exercise before you create your own.
Visualising the World
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to the importance of data and the concept that the way data is displayed can aid understanding. The Lesson Plan aims to show students how organisations, businesses and governments use data visualisation tools to ask better questions of the data they collect, as well as gain greater understanding of that data, which in turn helps them make better decisions.Learning Objectives
- Describe how we can use data to see the world
- Understand the impact of data visualisation
- Explain how we can use data to improve our lives and create opportunities
- Predict the future using data.
What Colour Is Your Jet Pack
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Does your future career have a colour? Find out before you take on the Dream Job Exploration mission, where you’ll be tasked to figure out the steps needed to make your future a reality.
What Colour Is Your Jet Pack
Holistic Aim
Students think and talk about the dream job that they aspire to, and they learn about the skills they might need for their future careers. These skills will cover a variety of subject areas.Learning Objectives
- Understand more about jobs that will exist in the future
- Identify career traits for future careers
- Identify our dream job and consider what we need to achieve it.
Sustainability
CHARTING A PATH FOR A BETTER,
GREENER FUTURE
Closing the Plastic Loop
Cycle-2 / Middle
This is the last straw for plastic waste. Learn fun and useful tricks that reduce our dependency on plastic—and then put your creativity to good use by creating a colourful comic strip story about it.
Closing the Plastic Loop
Holistic Aim
Students will learn that we shouldn’t just throw away waste – it’s a resource we can use to make something new.Learning Objectives
- Understand that plastic is reusable and can create new things
- Identify the ways in which we use plastic and consider alternatives
- Create a storyboard about reducing plastic and summarise learning.
Fuel of the Future
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Will hydrogen become the next clean fuel of the future? Explore what it'll take to make this exciting, renewable fuel feasible in our future cities.
Fuel of the Future
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that energy makes our world brighter, and creating a brighter future means using renewable energy that can offer a cleaner and greener future for our planet.Learning Objectives
- Describe in simple terms how clean hydrogen is produced and used
- Explore ways in which communities can transition to hydrogen, thinking about both new technologies and new thinking
- Identify opportunities that could drive a transition to renewable fuels at different levels, from personal to global.
Renewable Energy
Cycle-1 / Primary
Step aside, fossil fuel; there are new energy sources in town—and they are renewable. Let’s shed light on why renewable energy is important for our common future while using Expo’s Sustainability Pavilion as a model to emulate.
Renewable Energy
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that energy makes our world brighter, and creating a brighter future means using renewable energy that can offer a cleaner and greener future for our planet.Learning Objectives
- Understand that we use energy in all aspects of our daily lives but this can add to global warming when we use fossil fuels like gas
- Identify ways in which UAE already generates renewable energy, and could do so in the future
- List some ways in which the Sustainability Pavilion can show how buildings and countries can become more sustainable.
The Artificial Leaf
Cycle-2 / Middle
Ready to turn over an artificial leaf? This nifty new innovation can create and store hydrogen for fuel and other eco-friendly uses. Think you can come up with other uses yourself? Then better brush up first on the science of photosynthesis.
The Artificial Leaf
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that energy makes our world brighter, and creating a brighter future means using renewable energy that can offer a cleaner and greener future for our planet.Learning Objectives
- Discover how photosynthesis creates glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water, and that artificial leaves convert water into hydrogen and oxygen
- Describe how artificial leaves could be integrated into buildings and other aspects of community or city design
- Explain biomimicry and describe applications in a city of the future.
The Cold Chain
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Get the scoop on everything ice cream, from the moment it’s produced to the moment it served lovingly to you. And savour the cherry-on-top that is our deliciously insightful introduction to the circular economy.
The Cold Chain
Holistic Aim
The ice cream cone was popularised at the 1904 World Expo in St. Louis. Students will explain the cold chain in relation to ice cream, and think about how we can radically change the supply chain to make it more sustainable.Learning Objectives
- Apply the key concepts of cold chains, circular economy, linear economy, technosphere and biosphere
- Consider the impact of cold chains on resources in the UAE
- Use closed-loop design to create a more sustainable supply chain.
Waste Free Ocean
Cycle-2 / Middle
It’s time to rise above the plastic and see how plastic pollution has an adverse effect on marine life. Discover new ideas through a fun picture-matching game in this mind-challenging exploration.
Waste Free Ocean
Holistic Aim
Students will learn about what microplastics are and why they are harmful to the ocean through a range of interactive activities.Learning Objectives
- Understand what microplastics and microbeads are, and why they are harmful to the environment, particularly marine life
- Explain how microplastics end up in the ocean
- Discover ways to reduce waste from plastic and suggest alternatives to microbeads.
Buildings for Life
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Living in buildings that give back. That’s not a dream, but our future reality. Discover the awesome potential of regenerative buildings while designing new concepts where built and natural environments coexist in harmony.
Buildings to Life
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that human designs can have a positive relationship with the natural environment and create benefits for both humanity and nature.Learning Objectives
- Create awareness that our built environment interacts with the natural world and can have an impact on our lives
- Design a regenerative building and explain its functions and benefits
- Identify and share some positive effects regenerative buildings can have on residents and communities.
Conservation City 2071
Cycle-2 / Middle
Welcome to Conservation City 2071. Population: you and your classmates. As future residents, it’s your responsibility to create innovating solutions that help conserve UAE’s biodiversity and reduce negative human impact on the environment.
Conservation City 2071
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to some of the extraordinary natural ecosystems that can be found in UAE. These precious habitats are home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, some of which can only be found in UAE. Inspire students to support the conservation and preservation of the natural habitats that exist in UAE.Learning Objectives
- Name some of the wildlife of the UAE and recall facts about one species
- Identify the meaning of biodiversity and explain its importance.
- Create and share ideas for a city that blends urban features with conservation.
Coral Reefs
Cycle-1 / Primary
Ever saw coral reefs and thought, “I wish I had a part in making them beautiful.” Now you can! In this lesson, you’ll create your own ecosystem of coral reefs whilst exploring the dangers they are facing because of climate change.
Coral Reefs
Holistic Aim
To help students understand the impact that human activity can have on the planet, and explore how we can create a more sustainable future for all.Learning Objectives
- Explain that coral reefs are a habitat in the Arabian Gulf that is home to many special or endangered creatures
- Explain the difference between healthy and unhealthy coral reefs
- List some major threats to coral reefs.
Creating Opportunity
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Think you've got what it takes to tackle global challenges related to the energy-food-water nexus? Good to hear, because you’ll be creating conceptual solutions for the United Nations and its Sustainable Development Goals programme.
Creating Opportunity
Holistic Aim
To help students understand the impact that human activity can have on the planet, and explore how we can create a more sustainable future for all.Learning Objectives
- Name some global challenges and the UN SDGs related to them
- Apply some basic principles of design thinking to generate a possible solution to one SDG
- Reflect on our own aspirations and identify how we might contribute to a better future.
Energy Food and Water
Cycle-2 / Middle
If a picture can paint a thousand words, then a cartoon can spin a whole yarn. Illustrate and animate your perspective on how sustainable innovations can improve the energy-food-water dynamic by striking a balance across the three.
Energy Food and Water
Holistic Aim
To help students understand the impact that human activity can have on the planet, and explore how we can create a more sustainable future for all.Learning Objectives
- Recognise that energy, food and water are three key resources that are facing global challenges
- Outline how the term planetary boundaries describes the limits to production and pollution that our planet can support
- Explain one way in which we could innovate to use energy, food or water to live within our planetary boundaries.
Food to Facade
Cycle-2 / Middle
In the future, nothing will go to waste—not even food waste. Learn the amazing ways in which food waste can be turned into all sorts of useful things, from energy to inventions, before you come up with new ideas of your own.
Food to Facade
Holistic Aim
To introduce the concept that human designs can have a positive relationship with the natural environment and create benefits for both humanity and nature.Learning Objectives
- Recognise that food waste is a significant challenge
- Explore the outcomes of food waste
- Identify materials made from food waste
- Design our own material made from food waste and explain how it will be made, used and recycled.
Global Balance
Cycle-3 / Secondary, Cycle-2 / Middle
Did you know sustainable living is a balancing act? Learn how people have to make decisions within planetary and social boundaries in all aspects of our modern lives to keep our planet healthy.
Global balance
Holistic Aim
This lesson aims to teach students that there is always a balance or trade-off between environmental and social based decisions — a solution which helps one issue, may adversely affect another.Learning Objectives
- Explain the concept of planetary boundaries and social boundaries
- Understand the importance of these boundaries to the continued health of the planet and the good of humanity.
- Identify the trade-offs that are sometimes necessary when making decisions in order to try and improve something.
Mapping 2100
Cycle-3 / Secondary
Did you know the UAE is already building the framework for 2100? It’s all part of the country’s National Climate Change Plan. Get on board by creating nature-inspired designs and climate adaptation ideas for a future-ready world.
Mapping 2100
Holistic Aim
To encourage students to understand the environmental and climate-related changes taking place in the Gulf Region and to inspire them to think about how the built environment can be created in balance with – and inspired by – the natural environment.Learning Objectives
- state some climate change-driven differences in the UAE of 2100 versus the UAE of today
- give examples of how UAE may adapt in order to prepare for and thrive in the climate of 2100
- explain, with an example, how nature-inspired design thinking could help with adaptation
- suggest new ways of thinking, suitable for life in 2100, that will help people of today prepare and adapt for climate change in UAE.
Marvelous Mangroves
Cycle-1 / Primary
Ready to groove in the mangroves? Because this lesson is all about understanding the harmony between humanity and nature, and how human activity can leave an impact on the planet.
Marvelous Mangroves
Holistic Aim
To help students understand the impact that human activity can have on the planet, and explore how we can create a more sustainable future for all.Learning Objectives
- List some reasons why mangroves are an important habitat.
- Name some actions that can harm mangroves and things that protect them.
- Link the importance of mangroves to their ability to absorb some of the carbon released due to city living.
Protecting the Magnificent Five
Cycle-1 / Primary
Students, your marketing talents are needed at Expo 2020 Conservation Zone. Bring your A-game as you create attention-grabbing campaign slogans and ideas that motivate people to learn and care about UAE’s rich biodiversity.
Protecting the Magnificent Five
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to some of the extraordinary natural ecosystems that can be found in UAE. These precious habitats are home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, some of which can only be found in UAE. Inspire students to support the conservation and preservation of the natural habitats that exist in UAE.Learning Objectives
- Name the UAE’s ‘Magnificent Five’ habitats and one species that inhabits each one.
- Explore why UAE’s natural habitats are important and how and why they need to be conserved and protected.
- Create and explain campaign ideas that could be used to raise awareness about the importance of conservation in UAE.
Sustainable Development
Cycle-3 / Secondary, Cycle-2 / Middle
Who said achieving your goals can’t be fun? Sustainable Development Goals, that is. Game on as we introduce this planet-improving framework, laying out the “targets” we need to reach while helping you appreciate their importance.
Sustainable Development
Holistic Aim
To introduce students to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to the concept of planetary boundaries.Learning Objectives
- Describe the 17 SDGs and their associated targets
- Understand why these goals are important
- Explain the concept of planetary boundaries
- Understand the importance of these boundaries to the continued health of the planet.
Water from air
Cycle-1 / Primary
If you think “drinkable air” is a wild concept, then get a dose of this! With fresh water being naturally scarce in the UAE, you are tasked to rethink the water cycle and discover fun, practical ways of extracting water from air.
Water from air
Holistic Aim
Introduce the concept that human designs can have a positive relationship with the natural environment and create benefits for both humanity and nature.Learning Objectives
- Identify that fresh water is naturally scarce in the UAE and is energy-intensive to produce by desalination
- Share ideas for how water can be ‘harvested’ from the air around us
- Explain that Expo 2020 Dubai will showcase a ‘water tree’ that harvests water from the air.