A Sand County Almanac

A Sand County Almanac

• Genre: Nonfiction; Environmental literature; Nature essays
• Originally Published: 1949
• Reading Level/Interest: College/Adult
• Structure/Length: The book is divided into various sections and essays that reflect on different aspects of nature and conservation; approximately 269 pages
• Central Concern: A Sand County Almanac serves as a seminal work in the American conservation movement, providing profound and lyrical reflections on Aldo Leopold’s experiences as a forester and wildlife manager. Through vivid descriptions and philosophical musings, Leopold explores the relationship between humans and the natural world, advocating for a “land ethic” that promotes sustainable and harmonious living with the environment. The almanac covers a year’s time, observing the changes in seasons, wildlife, and ecosystems, and meditating on the lessons they teach about responsibility and stewardship.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Although the book does not contain graphic descriptions, it does contain material related to hunting. Its discussions of species loss and environmental degradation may be troubling for students struggling with climate change anxiety.

Aldo Leopold, Author

• Bio: Born 1887; died 1948; American ecologist, forester, and environmentalist; one of the founders of the Wilderness Society; developed the concept of a “land ethic”; worked extensively in wildlife management and conservation; taught at the University of Wisconsin; his work continues to influence the environmental movement today.
• Other Works: Game Management (1933); Round River (published posthumously in 1953).

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Nature as a Teacher
• The Disconnect Between Economic Value and Nature
• The Interruption of Natural Processes

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Explore background information on conservation writing and Aldo Leopold to increase their engagement with and understanding of A Sand County Almanac.
• Read/study short paired texts and other resources to deepen their understanding of themes related to Nature as a Teacher, The Disconnect Between Economic Value and Nature, and The Interruption of Natural Processes.
• Demonstrate their understanding of the detailed observation of nature Leopold advocates by completing their own piece of nature writing.
• Analyze the significance and effectiveness of various elements of the text, such as style, modes of argument, title wording, and purpose.