Chinese Translated Version (with thanks to Yifeng Peng)  : https://drive.google.com/open?id=1FG47LTBzmcl5l4ZIpIAG-yb8w2WykoVo&usp=drive_fs

Story Summary

The story of "The Monkton Merman" is set in Ryde, Isle of Wight, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The merman, who has lived in the area for generations, witnessed the changes in the environment caused by human activity. As the balance between nature and human life deteriorated, the merman retreated to the depths of the sea to meditate and focus on the world's balance.

Years later, the merman resurfaced to find signs of hope, such as the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles, people's increased awareness of environmental protection, and the restoration of marine ecosystems through seagrass planting. He encountered a group of children learning about biodiversity and the importance of the Isle of Wight's Biosphere Reserve status from a bearded man.

Excited by the teachings and the children's interest in the history of the rope makers, the merman revealed himself and created a magical knot symbolising the interconnectedness of all things. He encouraged them to remember his message, which the children and the bearded man spread by teaching others how to make "Monkton Merman Message Knots" using palm leaves, serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining balance in the ecosystem.

• The story highlights the significance of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status and various conservation efforts in Ryde, Isle of Wight.

• It emphasises the need for humans to recognise their immersion in nature and work towards maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

• The merman's message symbolises the interconnectedness of nature, humanity, land, and sea.

• "Monkton Merman Message Knots" serve as a reminder of the role everyone plays in protecting the Isle of Wight's biosphere reserve.

Story Activities

Storytelling and Role-playing:

Objective: Engage children in the story of "The Monkton Merman" to foster environmental awareness and empathy.

Activity: Narrate the story using props, puppets, or illustrations. Encourage children to role-play different characters from the story, such as the merman, the seahorse, or the children learning about biodiversity. Through role-playing, children can explore the characters' feelings, motivations, and actions, developing a deeper understanding of the story's message.

Reflection: Discuss with the children the importance of maintaining balance in the ecosystem and the role they can play in protecting the environment.

Creating "Monkton Merman Message Knots":

Objective: Teach children about the interconnectedness of nature, man, land, and sea through a hands-on activity.

Activity: Guide children in making their own "Monkton Merman Message Knots" using eco-friendly materials such as recycled paper strips or natural fibers. Encourage them to recite the merman's message while creating the knots: "Nature and man, land and sea, make these and remember me." Children can display their knots in the classroom or take them home as a reminder of their role in protecting the environment.

Reflection: Discuss how the knots symbolise the connection between all elements of the ecosystem and how our actions can impact the balance of nature.

Biosphere Reserve Exploration:

Objective: Provide children with hands-on experiences to learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of biodiversity.

Activity: Organise a field trip or a nature walk in an area representative of the Isle of Wight's biosphere reserve. Encourage children to observe and document the various plants, animals, and natural features they encounter. They can collect leaves, take photographs, or create drawings of their findings. Back in the classroom, create a display or a book showcasing the children's discoveries and the importance of preserving the biosphere reserve.

Reflection: Discuss the role of the biosphere reserve in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and how the children's actions, such as reducing waste and respecting wildlife, can contribute to its protection.

Write your own Local Mythology

Here are 5 step-by-step instructions for trainee early years teachers to write their own local mythology to bring Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) to life for children, families, and communities:

Research local history, folklore, and environment:

• Investigate the local area's history, traditional stories, and unique environmental features.

• Gather information from local libraries, historical societies, and community elders.

• Identify key elements of the local environment, such as rivers, mountains, forests, or coastlines.

Identify a central theme or message related to ESD:

• Choose a theme that resonates with the local environment and culture, such as the importance of biodiversity, the need for conservation, or the interconnectedness of humans and nature.

• Consider the age group of the children and ensure the message is developmentally appropriate and easily understandable.

Create a mythical character and storyline:

• Develop a central character that embodies the chosen theme or message, such as a guardian spirit of the forest or a wise animal guide.

• Create a storyline that follows the character's journey, challenges, and trials, weaving in elements of the local environment and history.

• Ensure the story has a clear beginning, middle, and end, with a resolution that highlights the importance of the ESD message.

Incorporate interactive elements and real-world connections:

• Include opportunities for children to engage with the story through questions, predictions, or role-playing.

• Connect the story to real-world experiences, such as local environmental initiatives or community projects.

• Develop follow-up activities that reinforce the story's message and encourage children to take action in their own lives.

Share the story and gather feedback:

• Present the story to children, families, and community members through storytelling sessions, puppet shows, or illustrated books.

• Encourage feedback and input from the audience to refine and improve the story.

• Collaborate with local environmental organisations, schools, or community centres to share the story and its message more widely.

Exploring Character, Space and Place

Here's a 5-step guide for students to explore aspects of culture, heritage, and ecological sustainability in their local area, while developing a sense of reciprocity with the built and natural environment:

Discover local history and heritage:

• Visit local museums, historical societies, and libraries to learn about your local area's past.

• Conduct interviews with community elders, historians, or local experts to gather stories and insights.

• Identify significant historical events, landmarks, and cultural traditions that have shaped the community.

Explore the local environment:

• Take walks or field trips to nearby parks, nature reserves, or green spaces.

• Observe and document the flora, fauna, and natural features unique to the area.

• Investigate local environmental challenges, such as pollution, habitat loss, or climate change impacts.

Engage with the community:

• Attend local events, festivals, or community meetings to understand the current concerns and priorities of the area.

• Participate in community service projects or volunteer opportunities that address local needs.

• Collaborate with local organisations, schools, or environmental groups to learn about ongoing initiatives and projects.

Develop a sense of reciprocity:

• Reflect on how personal actions and choices impact the local environment and community.

• Identify ways to contribute positively to the area, such as reducing waste, supporting local businesses, or participating in conservation efforts.

• Consider how traditional knowledge and practices can inform sustainable living and environmental stewardship.

Share findings and take action:

• Create a presentation, report, or creative project that showcases the discoveries made about local culture, heritage, and ecological sustainability.

• Share the findings with classmates, school administrators, and community members to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved.

• Develop an action plan to address a specific local environmental or community issue, and implement the plan with the support of others.