Global Climates--Past, Present, and Future. Activities for Integrated Science Education.

Designed for integration into existing science curriculum for grades 8-10, this curriculum uses a current environmental issue, climate change, as a vehicle for teaching science education. Instructional goals include: (1) familiarize students with scientific methods; (2) help students understand the role of uncertainty; (3) encourage students to gather meaningful data; (4) engage students in hands-on, experiential learning within the classroom and community; (5) develop student learning artifacts (used in authentic assessment); (6) examine information regarding Earth's climate as it currently exists; (7) analyze information regarding Earth's past climate; (8) develop the concept of a greenhouse; (9) consider factors contributing to Earth's climate; and (10) evaluate controversial issues regarding global climate change. Fifteen activities are contained in five modules five modules that cover climate; the greenhouse effect; the carbon cycle, climate change, and the greenhouse gases; and possible effects of climate change. Teacher and student materials are provided for each activity. Science content includes fundamental components of the climate system, including the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere; the scientific uncertainties involved in predicting the rate and magnitude of climate change; and the likely impacts of rapid climate change on ecosystems. The publication cites 17 additional curriculum resources. (LZ)