The Carbon Cycle

Provided by: TED-Ed |Published on: April 27, 2021

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Synopsis

This informative TED-Ed video details many of the ways that carbon dioxide gets into and out of Earth's atmosphere in the carbon cycle.
It features a quick examination of how the simultaneous practices of burning fossil fuels and deforestation can push ecosystems out of balance.
The visuals and creative animations make this content accessible to a wide range of learners.

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Subjects: Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, Engineering

Authors: Nathaniel Manning

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

The straightforward delivery of information in this video can help students make quick sense of frequently misunderstood concepts embedded in the carbon cycle.
The part that addresses innovation in order to address climate change can serve as a launching point for a variety of design activities for students.

Prerequisites

If interested in providing deeper context beforehand, students can be familiarized with concepts related to the Industrial Revolution, ecosystems, sustainable technology, and closed versus open cycles on Earth.

Differentiation & Implementation

Invite students to take a closer look at some reasons for deforestation along with strategies that can be employed to slow it down.
Allow students to view relevant emissions data while pinpointing geography with this interactive resource.
Have your class discuss approaches to retraining workforces while solving energy needs to slow the burning of fossil fuels.
This video mentions pushing the boundaries of innovation to solve pressing problems. Challenge students to get creative and dream up a possible solution to slow or reverse climate change. Give them the opportunity to then design their solution on paper, in slides, or in a physical form before inviting them to share.
For a list of impactful climate solutions, check out this table of solutions or take a look at these other resources about solutions that address more than just climate change.

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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.

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The Carbon Cycle

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources