Global Warming Project
Topic: Global Warming
Source: Northwestern University and the Center for Learning Technologies in Urban Schools (LeTUS); LeTUS receives funding from the National Science Foundation.
Web Address: http://www.letus.nwu.edu/projects/gw/
The site is confusing at first. To get to the main curriculum materials, click on the “Activities” link in the left frame. Lessons are in order going down the page, separated by lines. To find main lesson plans, click on the label at the beginning of the lesson titles (e.g. “A2,” “Revised!” or “New!”). Links to supplemental materials for the lessons are within the lesson summaries on the “Activities” page.
Grade Levels: 7-10
Learning Strategies: Inquiry-based; role-playing; meaningful scientific investigation; cooperative learning.
Frameworks Connections:
Science and Technology/Engineering
- Engineering and Technology /Engineering, Grades 6-8
2. Engineering Design
- Engineering and Technology /Engineering, Grades 9-10
1. Engineering Design
- Engineering and Technology /Engineering, Grades 9-10
4. Energy and Power Technologies – Thermal Systems
- Earth and Space Science, Grades 6-8
Heat Transfer in the Earth System
- Earth and Space Science, Grades 9-10
1. Matter and Energy in the Earth System
3. Earth Processes and Cycles - Physics, Grades 6-8
Heat Energy
- Physics, Grades 9-10
3. Heat and Heat Transfer
Mathematics
- Number Sense and Operations, Grades 5-8
- Data Analysis, Statistics & Probability, Grades 5-8
Cost: Lesson Plans are free. One activity requires a video, $19.95
Description: The Center for Learning Technologies in Urban Schools presents a new way of learning about climate change through project-based science. In this curriculum module, students learn about the definition of “global warming”, the scientific factors involved, the forces affecting the energy balance of the planet, and the impact they have on our climate. In this real-world simulation , students act as advisors to the heads of state in several nations, learning about climate change and what their governments can do about it. S tudents begin the module by bringing what they already know about climate change then delve into what is involved in climate change. This in-depth look allows students to then investigate and make predictions about atmospheric pollution and the possible results of climate change. The module makes use of WorldWatcher , a scientific visualization and data analysis program. “ WorldWatcher helps students literally see the world through maps, graphs, and displays of global weather data. Students can quickly spot patterns and trends in climate and human activity to understand the complex issue of global warming.”
The site is easily navigated and provides resources for teachers and students alike. The included materials connect to online activities and other resources u seful for examination of individual topics.