Loading...

Future leaders, make your voice heard about the world you want to live in by filling out this 5-min survey

Writing Lesson: Climate Literacy Argumentative Essay

Created by Teacher(s): Teacher Community|Published on: May 7, 2026
Lesson Plan
9101112
Created by New York Climate Education Hub teachers

Synopsis

In this lesson, students investigate how climate literacy shapes decision-making by analyzing New York case studies through an Ignorance Cost-Benefit Analysis framework. Students use evidence from multiple sources and a current New York City infrastructure challenge to write an argumentative essay on whether climate literacy should be required in high school.

Inquire: Students define “climate literacy” and consider how environmental data influences decisions and accountability within a community or city.
Investigate: Students analyze the Love Canal environmental disaster and Hurricane Sandy, using multiple sources to evaluate the economic, cost-of-living, social justice, and health impacts.
Inspire: Students apply their knowledge to a current New York City transportation challenge, then write an evidence-based argumentative essay on climate literacy and its professional application.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.Creative Commons License
Related Lessons, Units, and Activities
9-12 Thumbnails
Subjects: English Language Arts
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Region: Global, New York
Posted on May 07, 2026

Teaching Materials

Lesson Plan Preview
Accompanying Materials
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards

Teacher Writer

Avatar

Teacher Community

Teacher Community

Related Lessons, Units, and Activities

Reviews