Lesson summary
Students think about what we stand to lose with rapid global warming. They compare life on Earth today with life on Earth 55 million years ago, and how much more we have to lose now. They are asked to think about what aspects of the planet they wouldn’t like to see disappear, and what they would take if they were forced to move to a new planet. Finally, students are asked to create a glossary of five new words for life on a new planet.
These activities “… are an invaluable tool for teachers to address climate change in an educationally relevant, scientifically sound, and action-based way.” – Tim Flannery (Read more)
Learning intentions:
Students will...
- understand how life on Earth has changed over time and how it continues to change
- recognise the importance of environmental phenomena.
Lesson guides and printables
Lesson details
Curriculum mapping
Australian curriculum content descriptions:
Year 7 Geography:
- The factors that influence the decisions people make about where to live and their perceptions of the liveability of places (ACHGK043)
- The influence of environmental quality on the liveability of places (ACHGK045)
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.
Cross-curriculum priorities: Sustainability OI.1.
Syllabus Outcomes: GE4-1, GE4-4, GE4-6, GE4-2, GE4-3, GE4-5.
Time required: 60 mins
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – oversee activity and facilitate discussion.
Resources Required
- Internet access
- student worksheet
- Digital technology opportunities: Padlet, digital sharing capabilities.
- Key reading from We Are the Weather Makers: Chapter 5 – Time’s Gateways
Additional info
Cool Australia would like to acknowledge:
- Tim Flannery
- David Harding, Rose Iser, Sally Stevens
- Text Publishing and Purves Environmental Fund
- Climate Council
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