If you built a world, how would creatures survive there? The Science & Survival of Imaginary Worlds invites students to design their own ecosystems, civilizations, and landscapes while exploring real-world science, geography, and creative writing.
This curriculum is perfect for imaginative middle school learners who love maps, fantasy, survival stories, and “what if” thinking — all while reinforcing STEM skills in a flexible, neurodiverse-friendly format.
Subjects Covered
- Science (climates, biomes, adaptations, geology, natural disasters)
- Writing (descriptive writing, survival guides, narrative structure)
- Math (mapping, measurement, statistics, data interpretation)
- Geography & Civics (how environments shape cultures)
- SEL & Health (problem-solving, group dynamics, emotional regulation)
- Art & Design (map making, worldbuilding, creature creation)
- Optional P.E. survival movement games
Designed For:
- Ages: 11–14
- Grades: 6–8
- Best For: Homeschoolers, gifted/2e learners, fantasy fans
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Approach: Flexible, interest-driven, sensory-considerate
A Peek Inside the Unit
Students invent a world, then learn how it would really work. They’ll create weather systems, survival kits, emergency protocols, and fantastical yet biologically plausible creatures.
Inside the unit you’ll find:
*Daily guidance from Lumi, the AI learning companion
* Map creation and ecosystem planning
* Survival writing tasks like “Guide to Staying Alive in the Lava Zone”
* Scientific lessons on climates, disasters, and geology
* Creative prompts to invent cultures, languages, and legends
* Adaptations for executive function, sensory challenges, and emotional support
What You’ll Get
- 12 Weeks of Fantasy-Based Lesson Plans
- 60+ Printable Workbook Pages
- Worldbuilding Templates
- Parent/Teacher Support Guide
- Sensory/Neurodivergent Adaptations
- Canva Visual Prompts for Creature & Map Design
Sneak Peek
Example weekly themes:
- Week 2: “Biome Breakdown – Invent Your Ecosystem”
- Week 4: “Design a Natural Disaster”
- Week 6: “Guidebook to Survival in Your World”
- Visual Prompt: “Draw Your World’s Creatures or Inhabitants”
Ready to Begin the Quest?
More From Accessible Pathways
- The Science of Superheroes – Superpowers, science, and storytelling
- The Secret Life of Abandoned Places – What happens after people leave?
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