Writing Lesson: Climate Literacy Argumentative Essay
Created by Teacher(s): Yen-Yen Chiu|Published on: May 7, 2026
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Lesson Plan
Subjects: English Language Arts
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Created by: New York Climate Education Hub teachers
Region: Global, New York
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 →
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
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.
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Yen-Yen Chiu
Director of Education
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 →
