This lesson plan outlines a graphing activity in which students use spreadsheet software to graph data to identify long-term trends in sea level rise.
By reviewing short-term data in small groups and then combining it and comparing it with long-term data, students are able to see how scientists examine climate change phenomena over decades and centuries.
The lesson plan includes global sea level data in CSV files, a student activity sheet, background information, discussion questions, facilitation tips, and additional resources for teacher or student use.
Students act as scientists, using real world data to examine a global issue and identify trends.
The activity has students just examine one variable at a time, allowing for clear comprehension of the trend in sea level rise due to climate change.
The background information provided is rich and extensive, allowing for the teacher to decide the best way to set students up for success in comprehending this global phenomenon.
This activity allows students to practice spreadsheet software skills, as well as graphing skills with a fairly simple dataset that illustrates a clear trend.
Additional Prerequisites
Students should have some basic experience with software such as Google Sheets or Excel and be able to navigate the program with proficiency to follow instructions for creating a graph.
Students should understand how the dates are coded within the sea level data, so be sure to review this and check for understanding before having students create their graphs.
You will not be able to download the data files in the Chrome browser.
Differentiation
Consider having students work in groups of four, ensuring that there is one student per group with proficient Excel or Sheets skills.
If your class is discussing the discussion questions, allow students time to chat and research ways to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions in their small groups before sharing out as a class.
If using this activity in a middle school classroom, consider asking for additional adult support from a librarian, technology teacher, or other adult who has graphing software skills.
If you would like to utilize this lesson without having students graph on a computer, consider completing the graphs yourself and pasting them into a paper booklet for students to analyze in different groups.
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