Consequences of Global Warming

This lesson activity introduces Global Ups and Downs: Changing Sea Level, in which students discuss the global warming controversy and explore its impacts, in particular that of melting ice. They will also be introduced to the use of notebooks in science.

Materials / Preparation

• Computers with internet access for each pair of students
  OR
  Download and copy the articles you want your students to read at: Global Warming
  This site can also be accessed directly from the Global Ups and Downs Student Web Page, by having students select 'Introduction to Global Warming'.
• A notebook for each student

Grouping

No grouping is required

Teacher tips

The following website provides information on how to present the idea of notebooks:
Field Notebooks

We suggest using the student notebooks throughout for note-taking during class discussions and
other assignments. Separate individual worksheets can be stapled into the notebook as completed.

Procedures

1. Before beginning the unit, hand out notebooks for each student and introduce how scientists use them to organize thoughts and data to develop hypotheses. If possible, bring in examples of notebooks from actual scientists to show students. Tell students that they will be adding their thoughts in their notebooks over the next few days and that each entry should be dated. Have students add today's date so that they are ready to begin.
2. Begin the unit discussion by asking the question: “What is global warming? We hear about it all the time, but do we really know what it is? How do we know that it is occurring?” Have students brainstorm, while you write the suggestions on the board or poster. Underline ideas related to increasing temperature, ice caps melting, and dramatic weather events.
3. Hand out copies of the articles OR have students go to the Global Warming website and read the introductory article on global warming. All students should read the first page, and more advanced students can search through some of the links to gain a deeper understanding of the topic. Students can access this site directly from the Global Ups and Downs Student Web Page, by selecting the link: Introduction to Global Warming link.
   As the students read the article, or articles, have them write their ideas, thoughts, and questions in their notebooks.
4. Once students have finished their reading, begin discussion with questions such as “What are some of the effects of global warming that were mentioned in the article?” and “What are some major changes that you think might come about as global warming occurs?” Again, note ideas that include sea level change.
5. End discussion with something like: One of the possible impacts of global warming that you mentioned was "changes in sea level." What do you think would be the impact of changes in sea level? Do you think that sea level has changed in the past or is this a new phenomenon? If it has, how would we know? These are the kinds of questions we will be exploring over the next couple of weeks.

Resources used

Global Warming
http://www.teachingboxes.org/catalog.jsp?id=DLESE-000-000-008-846

Field Notebooks
http://www.teachingboxes.org/catalog.jsp?id=DLESE-000-000-008-847