Understanding Global Change - Construct a Model
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Provided by: Understanding Global Change Project|Published on: December 9, 2022
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This online interactive activity allows students to create a diagram showing how the Earth's systems and their components are interconnected.
- This resource includes a brief slideshow and a custom-made infographic that students can use for presentations or assignments.
Subjects: Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Earth and Space Sciences
Authors: Understanding Global Change Project
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This is a great way to introduce students to systems thinking while allowing them to apply their knowledge about the Earth's systems.
- The resource allows plenty of space for students to be creative, selecting between various factors to demonstrate the links between the Earth's systems and changes.
Additional Prerequisites
- A list of key terms can be accessed by downloading the framework outline from the slideshow.
- The framework is small and, therefore, difficult to read but can be zoomed into by clicking the + symbol on the top right.
- Students can learn more about different terms by clicking on them on the Framework page.
- Students can save their work to their computer or Google account.
- This resource requires access to the Internet and a device.
Differentiation
- Considering the number of terms in the handout, students can read it in pairs, groups, or as a class. Some students may find it helpful to have access to the handout before class.
- For those without access to the internet, the framework can be projected, the handout printed, and students can draw their own systems on paper.
- Have students consider why it is important for humans to prevent certain changes to Earth's systems.
- As a follow-up activity, have students research which of Earth's systems are being strained or accelerated today due to changes in other systems (i.e., feedback loops).
- To extend the lesson, have students watch this video on the many ways humans impact Earth's systems.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
Understanding Global Change Project
The Understanding Global Change (UGC) Project at the University of California, Berkeley, Museum of Paleontology can help you discover why the climate and environment changes, your place in the Earth system, and paths to a resilient future. We provide a framework and tools for understanding and modeling climate and environmental change, curriculum planning guides, and professional learning programs that support systems thinking. The UGC Project partners with teachers, scientists, school districts, curriculum writers, informal educators, and community organizations across the country to integrate climate science and action into K-16 curricula and informal learning environments.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
