In this lesson, students analyze how federal, state, and local governments respond to climate-related disasters and evaluate whether these policies effectively address rising costs and community needs. They compare policies across levels of government and apply their understanding by writing a data-driven policy memo that recommends action and includes a pathway for civic engagement.
Inquire: Students examine disaster cost data and discuss the responsibility and effectiveness of climate response across three levels of government.
Investigate: Students analyze and compare federal and state climate policies to determine their goals, impacts, and effectiveness, then identify gaps in current approaches.
Inspire: Students evaluate a local climate policy and write a policy memo recommending action to a specific level of government, incorporating evidence, counterarguments, and a civic participation strategy.
This lesson plan was developed by John Grant as his final project for LEAP's third annual summer institute. We acknowledge funding from the National Science Foundation through the Learning the Earth with Artificial Intelligence and Physics (LEAP) Science and Technology Center (Award #2019625).
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