Description:
This series of activities and experiments demonstrates the importance of ³feed-backs² and the balance of mass and energy in governing the response of any system to change. Energy balance and the factors that cause change (feedbacks) are the keys to understanding climate change, and therefore the keys to understanding the effects of rising levels of greenhouse gases on the environment.

• Determine the volume change with time (input rate) with drain closed.
• Make a scale model of a local basin and use it to determine potential effects due to climate change or the seasonal cycle.
• Determine differences in evaporation rates, steady states, open and closed systems, and process.

Although these activities are designed to teach specific skills and knowledge through scientific inquiry, their broader intent is to stimulate thought and discussion about the long-term impacts of a warmer planet. Each activity is part of an overall series entitled The Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change, which includes teacher resources for grades 1-12. Twelve modules (10 printed and 2 online resources) comprise the set

Organization:
Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

URL:
http://www.strategies.org/climate.html

Contact:
Stacey Rudolph, IGES, 2111 Wilson Blvd., Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22201; Phone: (703) 875-8634; stacey_rudolph@strategies.org

Cost:
Free over the Internet

Education Level:
Grades 5-8
Grades 9-12

Subject:
Climate
Earth System Science
Energy
Greenhouse Effect

Resource Type:
Internet Site
Curriculum/Instructional Materials

Date Added to teachearth.com:
8/14/00