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Global Warming Lesson Plan
Mission: Earth – Tackling Global Warming with a Growth Mindset
Subject
Science
Grade
6
Methodology
Direct Instruction
Duration (minutes)
55
Overview
Introduction to Global Warming 10 min
Causes and Effects of Global Warming 15 min
Problem-Solving Workshop 20 min
Conclusion and Reflection 10 min
Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.3, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1
Background Knowledge
This lesson will introduce students to the concept of global warming, including its causes and effects. Students will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving activities to develop strategies for combating global warming while fostering a growth mindset toward environmental challenges.
Skills
Growth Mindset, Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking
Objectives
Understand the concept of global warming and its causes
Analyze the effects of global warming on the environment
Develop problem-solving skills to address global warming
Cultivate a growth mindset towards tackling environmental issues
Materials
Excerpt: Understanding Global Warming
Assessment: Causes and Effects of Global Warming
Video: What Is the Greenhouse Effect?
Excerpt: Understanding Global Warming
Card: Global Warming Research and Solutions Tasks
Presentation: Global Warming Problem-Solving Workshop
Table: Actionable Steps to Combat Global Warming
Assessment: Assessment and Review
Game: Science and History Trivia Game
Lesson Activities
Introduction to Global Warming (10 Min)
Begin by asking students a provocative question: 'What would happen if Earth's temperature increased by just a few degrees?' Use this to activate prior knowledge and spark curiosity. Introduce the concept of global warming using a summary excerpt that explains the basics in simple terms. Use a quick write activity where students jot down their initial thoughts on global warming. Follow this with a brief discussion to share ideas and set the stage for deeper exploration.
Causes and Effects of Global Warming (15 Min)
Present new material on the causes and effects of global warming using a video that explains these concepts clearly. Follow up with a worksheet that has students match causes (e.g., greenhouse gas emissions) with their effects (e.g., melting ice caps). Conduct a Think-Pair-Share activity where students first think individually about the most surprising cause/effect they learned, then pair up to discuss their thoughts, and finally share with the class. Use a context excerpt to provide real-world examples of global warming impacts.
Problem-Solving Workshop (20 Min)
Divide students into small groups for a cooperative learning activity using the Jigsaw Method. Assign each group a specific problem related to global warming (e.g., reducing carbon footprint, promoting renewable energy). Provide task cards with detailed instructions and resources for each problem. Groups will research their assigned problem, discuss potential solutions, and create a brief presentation. Use a worksheet to guide their research and solution development. Each group presents their findings and solutions to the class.
Conclusion and Reflection (10 Min)
Conclude the lesson with a reflection activity. Use a summary excerpt to recap the key points covered. Conduct a Quick Write where students reflect on what they learned and how they can apply this knowledge in their daily lives. Follow this with a class discussion to share reflections and reinforce the growth mindset. Use a Rule Table to outline actionable steps students can take to combat global warming.
Assessment and Review (15 Min)
Assess students’ understanding through a worksheet that includes multiple-choice and short-answer questions covering the lesson's key points. Use a peer review workshop where students exchange and review each other's answers, providing constructive feedback. Conduct a final review using a Jeopardy game to reinforce learning in an engaging and interactive way.