Putting a New Spin on the Earth

Have you ever thought about why all those trees are planted around your local shopping mall? How about the fountains that are in front of the downtown office complex? Or the layout of your school grounds? Someone has to think about all that outside space...and it might as well be you, according to the three friendly and energetic landscape architects that host this interesting career video. Three simulations are presented, with kids doing the creative work, to show the step-by-step approach of problem solving landscape architects must use to design utilitarian and environmentally-responsible places. The well-spoken kids in each segment represent a wide range of ages and ethnicities, and the visuals--separated by quick, punchy edits--keep up the pace. However, the filmmakers could have easily dropped the third (somewhat repetitive) segment in favor of more practical career information (i.e., necessary education, how to get involved in environmental work, etc.). Still, this is a strong optional purchase for career weeks or in a youth development classroom. Aud: I, J, P. (E. Gieschen)