A Paleo Perspective…on Global Warming, 2000

Topics:  Global Warming, Greenhouse Effect

Source:  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Paleoclimatology Program

Web Address: http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/paleo/globalwarming/sitemapgw.html

Grade Levels:  HS and college

Learning Strategies:  Reading comprehension

Frameworks Connections:

Science and Technology/Engineering

• Earth and Space Science, Grade 9 or 10

1.  Matter and Energy in the Earth System
3. Earth Processes and Cycles

• Biology, Grades 9-10

6. Ecology

Cost:  Free online readings

Description: The NOAA website contains readings on the background of global warming and the greenhouse effect.  The “Paleo Perspective” means that the research is taken from the last few thousand years, a more recent time by scientific standards, as it provides for better samples and dating in relation to the human effect on global warming.  In addition to the human effect on global warming, studies can assist in understanding how the climate changes will affect humans in return. 

Although there are no activities involved in the readings provided, the information and diagrams supplied can be used as supplementary information for other climate changes and global warming discussions.  The site contains links to other areas where the reader can investigate how global warming is studied through data that is collected and analyzed by scientists and through satellite images to view the lasting effects global warming has on our atmosphere.  The readings can also be used to stimulate further classroom discussions or investigations about global warming in students' communities.