This unique curriculum provides numerous opportunities for teachers to introduce coal, Illinois' most abundant natural resource, or coal-related topics into the curriculum.  In the lower grades, coal can be integrated into topics such as: goods and services, costs and benefits of choices made, decision-making, rocks and minerals, the environment, technology, Illinois history, social studies and reading and writing.  At the middle school level, coal can be integrated into topics such as: density, supply and demand, persuasive writing, economics, careers, botany, graphing, determining area, environmental issues and geology/Earth history.  At the high school level, coal can be integrated into topics such as: cost-benefit analysis, the role of the Illinois coal industry in Illinois economics, environmental policy and economics, ratios, proportions and percent, workplace law, the company store, biographies, environmental issues and chemistry.

“From the Coal Mines to the Power Lines” coal curriculum will give teachers the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to provide their students a sound and meaningful understanding of coal in Illinois.  The curriculum covers the rich history of coal and coal mining, its role in the Illinois economy as well as its significance to the state’s energy profile and the impact of clean coal technology on the environment.
 
“From the Coal Mines to the Power Lines” addresses a variety of topics and skills in science, social studies, math, language arts and economics.  Although the guide is divided into grade level sections of K-4, 5-8 and 9-12, the lessons and tie-ins can be used interchangeably with minor adjustments by the teacher.  A matrix is included to show the correlation of the lessons and tie-ins to the Illinois State Learning Standards.  A CD-ROM accompanies each of the three grade level sections.  Each CD-ROM displays a PowerPoint Presentation that is designed to be a teaching tool for the instructor complementing the series by adding depth and understanding to the concepts and vocabulary inherent to the lessons and tie-ins that comprise the written portion of the curriculum.  The presentations highlight glossaries of terms through the use of captions, questions, photos, clip art, descriptions, and music. 

To receive a copy of the curriculum, write to Linda Dunbar in DCEO’s Office of Coal Development, 500 E. Monroe St., Springfield, IL 62701, or call 217-524-3820 or e-mail Linda.Dunbar@illinois.gov.