Paleoclimate: A History of Change

Description
This interactive module examines Earth’s past and present climate, highlighting the effects of two important factors: solar radiation and the composition of the atmosphere.
Earth's climate is a complex system controlled by many factors. This Click & Learn explores the history of our climate over millions of years, during both warmer and colder periods. The Click & Learn also sheds light on the causes, implications, and severity of current climate change. The accompanying “Worksheet” guides students’ exploration of the Click & Learn.
Student Learning Targets
- Identify key factors influencing Earth’s climate, including solar radiation and the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide).
- Describe how and why Earth’s climate has changed over time.
- Summarize the concept of climate change and the factors that contribute to it.
Details
carbon dioxide (CO2), foraminifera, global warming, greenhouse effect, ice age, mass extinction, oxygen isotope, solar radiation
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Curriculum Connections
HS-ESS2-2, HS-ESS2-4, HS-ESS2-6, HS-ESS3-5; SEP4, SEP6
SYI-3.E; SP2, SP5
4.4
II.D, VII.B
7.2
ELA.RST.9–12.7
Math.N-Q.1, Math.A-CED.1; MP2
CC5; DP1, DP4