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Page 8
Climate Change and Topography (teacher guide)
Recommended Grade Level(s):
Appropriate for: Grade 8
Standards:
M.D.1. Structure of the earth system.
j. Global patterns of atmospheric movement influence local weather. Oceans have a major effect on climate, because water
in the oceans holds a large amount of heat.
k. Living organisms have played many roles in the earth system, including affecting the composition of the atmosphere,
producing some types of rocks, and contributing to the weathering of rocks.
Time Requirements:
Activity Time: 90 minutes
Objective:
Students will use topographic maps and models to determine the extent of vulnerability of the Delmarva Peninsula to climate
change, specifically sea level rise.
Essential Question:
What is the relationship between climate change and topography with respect to sea level rise?
Teaching Notes:
The Delmarva Peninsula is an excellent area to study in terms of the effects of climate change. One of the most pressing concerns as cli-
mate changes is sea level rise. The Delmarva Peninsula is an extremely low area and is subject to flooding and erosion already. Students
will investigate just how low the Peninsula is and use models to predict the potential impacts of sea level rise on the areas in which they
live. Worcester County was "ahead of the curve" in terms of anticipating climate change as they completed a study in 2008 to investigate
the effects of sea level rise on various areas. Students will have access to this electronic resource.
Materials:
• Topographic maps (or access to online topographic maps)
• Computer with internet access
Step-by-Step Procedure:
1. Students will engage in a brief class discussion about their experiences with flooding. Many students will be able to recount
stories of being unable to leave their homes or go to certain areas of the Peninsula due to flooding.
2. Students will view the following video segment Antarctic Ice: Sea Level Change
3. Distribute topographic maps and accompanying handouts for students to complete. Students will need internet access to the
following site, MERLIN Maryland Mapping software, to complete part 2 of the assignment.
Resources:
• Teacher's Domain
• MERLIN Maryland Mapping software
• Worcester County Sea Level Rise Response Strategy
