Factors & evidence for climate change KS3 Science

This comprehensive lesson explores the fundamental aspects of climate change, from its causes to the methods scientists use to study Earth’s climatic history. Students will delve into the greenhouse effect, examine evidence of past climate changes, and engage in hands-on analysis of sediment cores.

Students will:
Unravel the greenhouse effect: explore the mechanisms behind global warming and its impact on our planet.
Journey through Earth’s climate history: discover how scientists uncover information about past climates and the evidence they use.
Analyse ancient climate data: engage in a practical sediment core analysis activity, comparing evidence from sediment and ice cores.
Interpret proxy data: Learn how scientists use indirect indicators to reconstruct past climates and practice these techniques.

By the end of this lesson, students will:
Explain why global warming happens
Describe how the climate has changed over time
Identify the evidence scientists have for climate change
Demonstrate techniques in using proxy data to measure climate change

This lesson provides students with a deeper understanding of climate change processes and scientific methods, while addressing key areas of the KS3 Science curriculum.

**Curriculum links **
Science KS3
Earth and atmosphere:
The composition of the atmosphere
The production of carbon dioxide by human activity and the impact on climate
Evidence for past climate change
Working scientifically:
Using evidence to support conclusions
Analysing data and graphs
Investigation skills