Quick Concepts

Quick Activities to Teach Leave No Trace

The following activities are designed to provide a quick introduction to participants' connectedness to the natural world and the seven Leave No Trace principles. Each activity can be completed in about 15 to 30 minutes and may be adapted to either home or backcountry situations.

Each Quick Concept activity is divided into three parts: "Grabbing Your Group's Attention," "The Activity," and "The Discussion." It is very important to carefully read the Background on the Principles of Leave No Trace before introducing these activities.

Grabbing Your Group's Attention

Use this time to set the stage for the activity and generate curiosity throughout the group.

The Activity

Encourage participation and thought during the activity. Remember, building critical thinking skills is more valuable than simply memorizing correct answers.

The Discussion

Use your knowledge and experience to help your audience answer questions raised by the activity. Guide, rather than dominate, the discussion. The quick concepts cover

Activity Plans

Detailed Activities for Meetings or Outings

The following activity plans are designed to provide detailed teaching blueprints for leaders. The activities focus on our natural world and the seven Leave No Trace principles. Each activity requires 45 to 75 minutes to complete. Activity plans are composed of five parts:

What Your Group Will Learn

Each activity plan will include the objectives for the activity, along with a brief explanation of the activity.

Materials and Preparation

A list of all required materials and preparation will accompany each activity plan.

Grabbing Your Group's Attention

Use this time to set the stage for the activity and generate curiosity throughout the group.

Steps for Teaching the Activity

Each activity plan includes step-by-step instructions for conducting the activity and stimulating discussion.

Wrapping Up the Activity

Close each activity with follow-up questions and thoughts to help summarize and reflect on the activity.

Teaching Leave No Trace