Cascading Effects

Several Mount Rainier Teacher-Rangers creating a living concept web with string and posters to illustrate the effects of climate change as part of the Cascading Effects lesson plan.

NPS Photo

 

Overview:	In this lesson students will learn about potential impacts of climate change in Mount Rainier National Park and communicate these potential impacts to their peers through a concept web activity. This lesson will lead into Enviro-Ethics where students will develop a "Personal Code of Environmental Ethics" for exploring and enjoying the natural world while reducing their ecological and carbon footprint.
Grade Level:	5 - 12
Objectives:	Students will: Read case studies about potential impacts and Intergovernment Panel on Climate Change reports and summarize important details using words and/or labeled diagrams. Identify ways in which organisms may be affected by climate change. Explain how components of an ecosystem are interdependent. Use a variety of media to communicate their understanding to peers. Explain why understanding climate change is important. Make choices to mitigate or reduce potential negative impacts of climate change.
Lesson Plan:	Cascading Effects - word, 57KB Cascading Effects - pdf, 201KB
Resources:	Climate Change Data Evidence Cards (English & Japanese) Climate Change Flash Cards Case Study Card - Forest Case Study Card - Glacier Case Study Card - Pika Case Study Card - Salmon Case Study Poster Materials Example - Forest Case Study Poster Materials Example - Nisqually Glacier Case Study Poster Materials Example - American Pika Case Study Poster Materials Example - Chinook Salmon