This video outlines a four-step process to solving global crises, including understanding the problem, implementing a scientific plan, getting global leaders to cooperate, and using luck.
Students will learn how the plan was used in the past to repair the hole in the ozone layer and eradicate smallpox.
Teaching Tips
Positives
The video provides a general framework for solving any global crisis.
It acknowledges that despite modern advanced science, current global problems (e.g., climate change, nuclear war, pandemics, and disloyal AI) may be difficult to solve due to divisive politics.
It includes a brief article with linked resources for further reading.
Additional Prerequisites
The content for this video ends at 3 minutes, 29 seconds. The remaining time is a sponsored ad.
Differentiation
Students can identify a current global issue they want to solve and write in detail about the four steps to solve the problem.
Students in civics classes can research the Montreal Protocol and evaluate the similarities and differences to modern attempts at solving the climate crisis.
Students in writing classes can write opinion pieces on how big of a role luck plays in solving global issues.
Other resources related to this topic include this lesson on analyzing the best solution to climate change and this game that explores potential solutions to climate change.
Scientist Notes
This video, while at times offering hyperbolic statements, does articulate the science behind fixing the ozone hole and the eradication of smallpox accurately. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
ESS3: Earth and Human Activity
MS-ESS3-3 Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
HS-ESS3-4 Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.
ETS1: Engineering Design
HS-ETS1-1 Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants.
College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Standards
Dimension 2: Civics
D2.Civ.13.6-8 Analyze the purposes, implementation, and consequences of public policies in multiple settings.
D2.Civ.14.9-12 Analyze historical, contemporary, and emerging means of changing societies, promoting the common good, and protecting rights.
