Project Learning Tree (PLT) is an award-winning environmental education curriculum and national program that inspires current and future generations to use forests as a lens to the world.
The resources teach students not WHAT to think, but HOW to think about complex environmental topics, like understanding forest ecosystems, water conservation, and climate change. PLT’s hands-on lessons encourage critical thinking and a deeper application of environmental aspects through immersive educational experiences designed for preschool through 12th grade.
Who should use PLT?
Project Learning Tree is for anyone passionate about educating others about the environment. In Texas, we proudly serve as one of the state sponsors of PLT. Together with the Texas Forestry Association, we co-coordinate the development and delivery of PLT’s engaging public education programs across the state.
Teachers, educators, parents, and community leaders can benefit from PLT’s resources to create a well-rounded environmental education experience. Designed to be accessible and user-friendly, PLT’s resources include step-by-step instructions, background information, printable worksheets, and training opportunities. You don’t need extensive experience or background training to effectively deliver these lessons and guide student learning. Whether you’re in a classroom, at home, or in a community setting, PLT makes environmental education achievable and impactful for everyone.
Curriculum
Project Learning Tree curriculum is rooted in the Forest Literacy Framework , a standard foundational set of topics and themes that guide teaching and learning about forests.
While designed based on the principles and approaches of the Texas Forest Literacy Plan [link to Forest Literacy Plan page], the national Forest Literacy Framework is crafted to integrate applied environmental education into core school subjects for grades K-12 across the country. These frameworks include:
Learn: What is a forest?
Connect: Why do forests matter?
Apply: How do we sustain our forests?
Act: What is our responsibility to forest?
Activities
K-8 activity guide
Inspire youth with hands-on activities designed to connect K-8 learners with the natural world. This guide provides educators with engaging lessons that align with national and state education standards, making it easy to integrate environmental education into any subject.
Nature activities for ages 1-6
Introduce the youngest learners to the wonders of nature with simple, playful activities tailored for children ages 1-6. These activities help develop early skills, spark curiosity, and nurture a lifelong love of the outdoors
Downloadable activity collections
Access themed collections of ready-to-use activities that explore topics like trees, wildlife, and ecosystems. These resources are perfect for informal educators, parents, and caregivers looking to make learning about nature fun and convenient.
Searchable activity catalog
Quickly find the perfect activity with the searchable catalog. Browse by grade level or major themes to discover engaging lessons and resources tailored to your needs.