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Climate Change Toolkit: A Middle School Science Unit
Submitted by: Karen M.
Recommended Grade Level(s):
Appropriate for: Grade 8
Teaching Topics & Concepts:
Earth/Environmental Science, Climate Change
Standards:
M.D.1. Structure of the earth system. Global patterns of atmospheric movement influence local weather. Oceans have a major ef-
fect on climate, because water in the oceans holds a large amount of heat.
H.D.1. Energy in the earth system. Global climate is determined by energy transfer from the sun at and near the earth's surface.
This energy transfer is influenced by dynamic processes such as cloud cover and the earth's rotation, and static conditions such as
the position of mountain ranges and oceans.
Time Requirements:
Activity Time: 13 day unit
Objective:
Students will examine climate change from various perspectives and utilize primary resources to conduct research.
Background Information, Activity Setup:
A Way Forward: Facing Climate Change Video
Watch This Before You Vote—Climate Change Video
Heritage In Focus: Cold Facts on Global Warming
Teaching Notes:
To open the climate change discussion, I have compiled a series of short videos which highlight the different viewpoints regarding
climate change. The first one is a National Geographic production. It is an excellent example of a balanced approach to explaining
climate change. The second one was made by a group called voteclimate.org. It is alarming and will evoke an emotional response in
viewers. The last one was produced by the Heritage Foundation. This group acts as a "front man" for big oil and gas companies like Koch
and Exxon/Mobile. Students should be able to discern a difference in tone between the three videos and ultimately identify the purpose
and intended audience for each of them. Students will complete accompanying handout while viewing videos. Classroom discussion
will follow videos. Students will also complete a climate change questionnaire. Students will interview at least two people
(one classmate and one parent/guardian). Data from interviews will be compiled and discussed.
This content is being brought to you by the Ward's World,
Science By You program. This program brings lesson and
classroom activity ideas directly from science teachers
around the nation right to you. From best practices to
activities, Science by You offers inspiration for every subject
and every grade level. Interested in sharing your own
content? Learn how today.
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