Climate models mathematically represent the interactions of the atmosphere, oceans, land, sun, surface, and ice. Part two in the series of four lessons looks at the role greenhouse gases play in keeping Earth warm and has participants manipulate computer climate models to show how things change on Earth. After this practice, groups of two to three attempt to moderate the climate of Earth by manipulating gases in order to predict future conditions. 

Concepts

climates, carbon, greenhouse gases, the greenhouse effect

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Teachers should download and familiarize themselves with the GEEBIT climate model software before doing the activity

Classroom Considerations

• Requires one computer with Internet access for every two to three pupils
• The link to GEEBIT Excel files, which is needed to complete one day of the activity, does not work; the software can be found here: https://icp.giss.nasa.gov/education/geebitt/

Pros

• Lesson provides worksheets, graphs, directions, situation cards, and an answer key
• There are different levels of the GEEBIT software depending on the proficiency of your class

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.9-10.7