Humans constantly change the earth by building things, using natural resources, and relocating plants and animals. The lesson considers would happen to the planet if humans were gone. The narrator discusses the changes in buildings and infrastructure, the resurgence of some natural resources, and the changing habitats thanks to invasive species. Multiple choice and short-answer questions ensure comprehension.

Concepts

planet earth, human impact on the environment

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Connect the video and discussion to the concept of homeostasis

Classroom Considerations

• Requires a free TedEd account
• Lesson is easy to customize; view ahead of time to determine what works for each class

Pros

• Links to additional resources for extending learning
• Provides subtitles in eight languages to encourage equal access to the content

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.4 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4