12th Grade Planetary Boundaries Lessons

Explore historical trends in global temperature and carbon levels, examining their effects on biodiversity and habitability in urban areas like New York. Gain insights into the implications of climate change on ecosystems and human living conditions, enhancing critical thinking skills related to environmental sustainability.

Explore the influence of greenhouse gases on global climate change, focusing on the role of CO2 levels, methane emissions, and the origins of atmospheric CO2. Gain insights into how these gases affect climate patterns and understand their broader implications for environmental science and policy.

Explore methods scientists use to study ecosystems, such as field research, controlled experiments, and the application of technological tools like GPS and drones. Gain insights into research methodologies and develop skills to analyze ecological patterns and design controlled studies.

Focuses on understanding the fundamental concepts of climate change, highlighting the role and impact of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and water vapor. Learners gain insights into the greenhouse effect, the causes of global warming, and the human contributions to these phenomena. The content equips learners to comprehend and discuss the environmental and ecological consequences effectively.

Examine the evolutionary changes in Earth's atmosphere, its present-day composition, and the effects of greenhouse gases on global climate change. Gain insights into the historical and scientific factors affecting the atmosphere, including comparisons with other planets and the influence of human activities on atmospheric changes. Develop a comprehensive understanding of these processes and their implications.

Examine the distinct and overlapping effects of global climate change and ozone layer depletion, focusing on their environmental impacts. Gain a deeper understanding of issues such as glacier melting, animal health, and atmospheric changes. Develop the ability to differentiate between these phenomena and their underlying causes, enhancing knowledge about global environmental challenges.

Discover the intricate structure and composition of Earth's interior by examining key elements such as the crust, mantle, and core. Gain a thorough understanding of geological processes that enhance the ability to analyze the planet's dynamic nature.

Investigate the differences between natural and anthropogenic greenhouse gases, examining their prevalence and the factors influencing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Understand the environmental shifts prompted by human actions and their implications for global climate dynamics. Aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of the role of these gases in climate science, enhancing analytical skills in evaluating environmental data and forming evidence-based conclusions.

Investigate the dynamics of Earth's rotation, revolution, and axial tilt, examining their influence on seasons and day-night cycles. Gain a comprehensive understanding of key astronomical concepts and the factors shaping Earth's climate patterns.

Understand the significance of the ozone layer in protecting Earth's atmosphere and explore the factors contributing to its depletion, such as chlorofluorocarbons. Gain insights into the consequences of ozone layer depletion and examine protective measures. Develop connections to broader environmental issues, including climate change, while focusing on content understanding and skill development.

Explore ecological succession through population dynamics and ecological disturbances. Understand factors influencing population growth and the impact of disturbances on ecosystems. Develop skills in analyzing population changes and identifying key ecological events.