Most ideas that are highlighted in this principle are part of the life science curriculum but integrate concepts previously introduced in physical sciences, geography and other disciplines. The key ideas in this principle build on the comprehension of the carbon cycle to understand the relationship between climate cycles, such as seasons, and biologic systems. Possible topics to teach an understanding of this principle are:
- Annual seasonal migrations of species.
- The effects of the spring "green up" in the northern hemisphere and the resulting seesaw pattern in atmospheric CO2 concentrations as as illustrated by the Carbon Dioxide Exercise
- Decade-scale events such as insect outbreaks, forest succession or drought.
- The 100,000 year cycle of ice ages, the role of CO2 in enhancing the temperature swings, and the response of biologic systems to these dramatic shifts in climate.
- Periodic mass extinction events that punctuate the geologic record and were likely related to climatic changes.
Another approach that may be engaging for older students is the delicate relationship between life and the climate. Many students will be surprised to learn of past mass extinction events and other sharp swings in the balance of the biosphere. This is a key place to discuss the role of humans in changing our environment and climate.
Middle school students in many parts of the world can observe the "green-up, green-down" seasonal process and participate in citizen science programs that encourage seasonal observations of migrating birds or butterflies, or when buds burst. See
Blooming Thermometers for an example. Students can also learn about the impact of climate change on ecosystems and on animal habitats, as in
Climate Change and Arctic Ecosystems.
In high school, students can learn about the global carbon cycle. This theme touches on many different processes such as photosynthesis, the formation of fossil fuels and the role of carbon dioxide in keeping Earth warm enough to sustain life. The
Global patterns in Green-up and Green-down activity illustrates the global carbon cycle.
In the introductory undergraduate curriculum, students can use an Earth systems approach to learn how Earth operates in several "spheres." The evolution of the atmosphere and its relationship to early life is a suitable topic, as are group projects such as Understanding the
Carbon Cycle: A Jigsaw Approach.
Upper-level college students can examine correlations between climate and life in a number of settings. For example, how did early humans adapt to the ice ages? How are climate perturbations expressed in various climate proxy data? What types of adaptations, migrations or population shifts are already being observed due to our warming climate?
Source: Climate Literacy & Energy Awareness Network
