Birkebeiner

• This resource is all about North America's largest cross-country ski race, the Birkebeiner, which goes across 50 kilometers of Wisconsin towns and forests, and is in jeopardy because of climate change.
• Students will learn about the race, its history, and the challenges the Birkebeiner is facing as temperatures rise and snowfall decreases. 

Positives

• This resource gives a great overview of an authentic experience in Wisconsin, while tying into concepts of climate change.
• The video is engaging for students at many levels and the article is a great way to continue learning for more advanced students.

Additional Prerequisites

• In order for this resource to make sense, ensure that students know what cross-country skiing is and what conditions are needed for successful cross-country skiing.
  

Differentiation

• Cross-curricular connections can be made in health classes that are considering how climate change will affect human health, physical fitness opportunities, and access to outdoor activities. 
• Before viewing, have students brainstorm what conditions might negatively impact a winter sport like cross-country skiing. This may turn into a worthwhile conversation about how our changing climate may also change the ways in which we spend time outdoors.
• After viewing, have students compile a list of other outdoor activities that may be negatively impacted by climate change.
• As an extension, have students create posters for the Birkebeiner that include information from the video and article. Their posters should include some of the race's history, fun facts, and concerns for the future of the Birkebeiner.
• Use the teaching tips included on the right side to have students expand on the topic with reflection and data analysis activities.