In this introductory lesson, we look at the scientific processes and concepts of the carbon cycle. This will enable students to grow prior knowledge of food webs, respiration, and photosynthesis, as well as the combustion of fossil fuels into a more complete model. The lesson starts with an exercise to illustrate the range of different forms of carbon and carbon compounds and where they are found. This is followed by a gamified exploration of the carbon cycle. Key vocabulary and an understanding of the carbon cycle and its link to climate change is developed through a dominos task and short answer questions. Learning outcomes Identify where carbon can be found Describe ten basic processes of the carbon cycle Demonstrate their understanding of carbon stores and movement between them Link increasing carbon in the atmosphere to climate change

This #GoogleExpeditions lesson develops student understanding of deforestation and reforestation using the Juma Reserve in the Amazon as a case study. Students will investigate the different impacts of deforestation and also efforts to reforest this area of the Amazon. Google Expeditions are immersive 360 degree photo stories designed for use in the classroom. For more see: https://www.google.com/edu/expeditions/ To download Google Docs versions of the lesson plan and student sheet go to: https://goo.gl/bLKEJh

Encounter Edu links curriculum aligned education with global burning issues to inspire STEM careers and encourage environmental stewardship. Learn more about what we do at www.encounteredu.com or by visiting our TES Shop, filled with quality, free of charge resources. This scheme of work would suit ages 11-14 and 14-16 (KS3/4). Download all the Google Earth activities for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, looking at Classification, Food Webs, Mutualism and Symbiosis, and Threats. They are designed to be used with the Catlin Seaview Survey Google Earth layer. Visit the Encounter Edu website to gain access the Catlin Seaview Survey Google Earth Layer at: www.encounteredu.com

A numeracy-based geography full lesson looking at the marine economy. Useful full lesson resource that ticks off the need to teach marine topics in KS2 geography and develops numeracy skills at the same time. This full lesson contains: Slideshow 4: Using our sea with Jennifer Gomez Molina Lesson Overview and Teacher Guidance Student Sheet 4a: Using our seas Student Sheet 4b: How much is the sea worth (in two different age groups) Student Sheet 4c: Using our seas poster Multimedia Slideshow Marine economy (animated ppt showing aspects of UK marine economy) It forms Lesson 4 of 12 from the Our Ocean Planet resource, which is designed to support Key Stage 2 teachers to teach all aspects of the ocean. It can be used as a full topic with over 20 hours of classroom activities or using a pick and mix approach. All lessons and resources are available from Encounter Edu’s TES profile.

This engaging nine-lesson unit for KS3 Geography introduces students to crucial aspects of ocean science and climate change, providing a comprehensive exploration of one of the 21st century’s most pressing issues. Covering 70% of Earth’s surface and absorbing over 90% of excess heat from global warming, the ocean plays a vital role in our planet’s systems and human livelihoods. Lesson Progression: Lesson 1 Mapping the Ocean Introduces ocean classification and mapping, emphasising interconnectedness. Lesson 2 Climate Change - Past to Present Explores climate science fundamentals and research methods. Lesson 3 The Carbon Cycle Examines the Earth’s carbon cycle and blue carbon concept. Lesson 4 Climate Impacts Investigates effects on vulnerable ecosystems like the Arctic and coral reefs. Lesson 5 How We Use the Ocean Explores ecosystem services and human impacts. Lesson 6 Ocean Resources - Human Impact Case Studies Focuses on the continental shelf and resource management. Lesson 7 Nature-based Climate Solutions Compares carbon sequestration in various ecosystems. Lesson 8 Climate Action, Policy & Science Traces the history of ocean-climate understanding and action. Lesson 9 Ocean and Climate Unit Assessment Summative assessment of key concepts and applications. Throughout the unit, students develop skills in: Analysing maps and data Understanding complex Earth systems Evaluating human-environment interactions Critical thinking about sustainability and conservation The lessons align with KS3 Geography curriculum requirements, covering locational knowledge, physical and human geography, and geographical skills. Cross-curricular connections with Science, Maths, and PSHE enrich the learning experience. By the end of the unit, students will have a comprehensive understanding of ocean-climate systems, their importance, and the challenges they face. They’ll be equipped to think critically about environmental issues and consider potential solutions, fostering a sense of global citizenship and environmental stewardship.

Coral Oceans Geography 14-16 delivers a comprehensive unit that covers the ecosystems portion of Geography GCSE. The download contains a teach booklet with student sheets for every lesson and 8 slideshows. The unit uses photos, virtual reality content and videos from research on coral reefs around the world to bring this topic to life. Students will work through a series of lessons, working towards an assessment on reef protection in Timor-Leste. The lessons in the unit are: Learning about the conditions needed for coral reefs and an introduction to Timor-Leste and the Coral Triangle. A study of the formation of coral reefs and the different habitat zones within reefs. A focus on the biotic and abiotic factors of coral reef ecosystems. A look at how humans use coral reefs and an understanding of ecosystem goods and services. An investigation of the threats facing coral reefs worldwide. An understanding of the potential impact of coral reef loss. A study of the strategies used globally to conserve coral reefs. An exam-style assessment. All multimedia materials and links to the opportunity to speak live to a coral scientist are available via https://encounteredu.com/teachers/units/coral-oceans-geography-14-16.

This engaging lesson introduces students to the complex world of ocean geography, tracing the evolution of our understanding from ancient times to modern oceanography. Students will explore various ways of classifying and mapping our oceans, considering both biophysical characteristics and human-oriented divisions. Key lesson components include: Examining historical perspectives on ocean exploration and mapping Understanding the ocean’s role in the broader Earth system Analyzing different methods of dividing and classifying the ocean Debating the implications of these divisions for ocean management and conservation The lesson incorporates a variety of activities, including class discussions, map analysis, and group work. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of physical geography, cartography, and human-environment interactions. By the end of this lesson, students will be able to: Describe key moments in the history of ocean exploration and oceanography Explain how the ocean connects to other Earth systems Identify and explain various methods of dividing and classifying the ocean Discuss the implications of ocean divisions on future management and conservation Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Understanding how human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Interpret a range of maps, globes and GIS to interpret and analyse places Cross-curricular connections Science: study of the earth and atmosphere History: study of the impacts of European exploration

Encounter Edu links curriculum aligned education with global burning issues to inspire STEM careers and encourage environmental stewardship. Learn more about what we do at www.encounteredu.com or by visiting our TES Shop, filled with quality, free of charge resources. The manuals demonstrate how Google Earth can be used to conduct fieldwork over the immediate area available to pupils. It brings together skills for space and mapping, using tech tools, project management and community/pupil agency to improve their own environment. Suitable for ages 11-4 and 14-16/ KS3/4

This comprehensive lesson grounds students in the fundamentals of climate science, exploring the processes that shape our planet’s climate and the methods scientists use to study climate change. Students will engage in a range of activities that bring climate science to life, developing their understanding of both natural and human-induced climate drivers. Key lesson components include: Exploring the fundamental factors that influence Earth’s climate systems Investigating natural climate drivers and distinguishing them from human influences Learning about proxy evidence and how scientists reconstruct past climates Visualising the greenhouse effect through interactive activities Analysing real climate data to develop critical thinking and data interpretation skills This lesson aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and climate processes. It also provides valuable cross-curricular links with Science, particularly in the areas of Earth science and energy. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the basic factors influencing Earth’s climate Describe the concept of climate change and its various drivers Outline methods scientists use to study past climates Demonstrate improved skills in analyzing and interpreting climate data Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Cross-curricular connections Science: Earth and atmosphere; energy

This #GoogleExpeditions lesson develops student skills in physical and human geography with a trip to Mount Everest. Students learn to use locational language and develop geographical descriptions of both physical and human features of the Mount Everest region. Google Expeditions are immersive 360 degree photo stories designed for use in the classroom. For more see: https://www.google.com/edu/expeditions/ To download Google Docs versions of the lesson plan and student sheet go to: https://goo.gl/vbMaIq

Our wonderful ocean KS3 is a resource for year 7, year 8, and year 9 students. This lesson introduces students to the marine habitat and encourages a discussion around what they already know about the ocean. Students use globes and maps to locate the different ocean basins. They then learn the names and key features of iconic marine species. Students then use information sheets to discover how humans use the ocean, presenting their findings in a fact-sheet. This is one of three lessons. The lessons introduce students to the breadth and depth of the ocean and the wonder of the creatures that inhabit it. The unit goes on to explore some of the many ways we depend on the ocean and asks students to write to the Secretary of State for the Environment expressing their concerns about ocean health. The unit then reviews what is meant by ocean plastics pollution and encourages students to critically appraise information from different media sources. Students then go on investigate possible career opportunities within this field. At the end of these three lessons students will be fully prepared to embark on the full Key Stage 3 unit - Ocean Plastics 11-14. Get the other lessons in this unit here: https://encounteredu.com/teachers/units/oceans-for-beginners-11-14

This in-depth lesson introduces students to the continental shelf, a crucial yet often overlooked part of the ocean environment. Students will explore the economic importance of this area, its various uses, and the potential conflicts between exploitation and conservation. Key lesson components include: Understanding the geography and importance of the continental shelf Exploring the diverse resources and uses of the continental shelf Investigating the impacts of fishing and other human activities on marine ecosystems Examining case studies of human exploitation and its consequences Reflecting on the** balance between economic activities and environmental conservation** The lesson incorporates a variety of engaging activities, including map analysis, video observations, group research projects, and discussions. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of physical geography, resource management, and human-environment interactions. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain why the continental shelf is a special part of the ocean Describe the resources and uses of the continental shelf Discuss how economic exploitation can impact marine ecosystems Analyse real-life examples of human activities on the continental shelf and their consequences This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to consider the complexities of managing ocean resources, fostering critical thinking about sustainable development and marine conservation. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate How human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems Cross-curricular connections Science: conserving biodiversity

This comprehensive lesson examines the impacts of climate change on two of the ocean’s most vulnerable ecosystems: the Arctic and tropical coral reefs. Students will explore how increased atmospheric CO2 affects these ‘sentinel’ environments and consider the implications for both marine life and human societies. Key lesson components include: Investigating the consequences of increased atmospheric CO2 on the ocean Understanding the concept of ‘sentinel’ environments in climate change research Analysing Arctic sea ice data to observe long-term climate trends Comparing healthy and bleached coral reefs through video analysis Reflecting on conservation efforts and international collaboration needed to address these issues The lesson incorporates a variety of engaging activities, including mind mapping, data analysis, video observations, and creative communication tasks. It aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and human-environment interactions. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the range of potential impacts of increased CO2 in the atmosphere on oceans Locate and describe areas of the ocean most affected by climate change Describe how Arctic and coral reef habitats are being negatively impacted by human activity Discuss appropriate human responses to these environmental challenges This engaging lesson provides students with a deep understanding of climate change impacts on critical ocean ecosystems, fostering both scientific literacy and environmental awareness. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locate the world’s countries, using maps to focus on major ocean regions, concentrating on their environmental regions Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate; Physical geography relating to weather and climate, including the change in climate from the Ice Age to the present; and glaciation and hydrology. Build on their knowledge of globes, maps, and atlases, and apply and develop this knowledge routinely in the classroom and in the field. Cross-curricular connections Science: Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things; Earth and atmospheric science, including climate change and its effects on the environment

This comprehensive lesson introduces students to the Earth’s Carbon Cycle and the concept of Blue Carbon, highlighting their critical roles in regulating our planet’s climate. Through a series of engaging activities, students will explore the movement of carbon through various Earth systems and understand the importance of coastal ecosystems in carbon sequestration. Key lesson components include: Exploring the carbon cycle and its influence on Earth’s climate Investigating the** links between the carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, and climate change** Introducing the concept of Blue Carbon and its role in carbon sequestration Mapping and analysing major blue carbon habitats using GIS tools Examining human impacts on the carbon cycle and exploring potential solutions This lesson aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and the interaction between human activity and natural systems. It also provides valuable cross-curricular links with Science, particularly in ecosystem studies. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the basic carbon cycle and its components Describe the connection between the carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, and climate change Define blue carbon and explain its importance Identify and locate major blue carbon habitats Discuss human impacts on the carbon cycle and potential mitigation strategies Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Understanding how human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Interpret a range of maps, globes and GIS to interpret and analyse places Cross-curricular connections Science: Ecosystems

This wide-ranging lesson focuses on carbon sequestration and its role in mitigating climate change. Students will explore three major carbon stores: forests, blue carbon ecosystems, and the continental shelf, gaining insight into how natural systems can help combat global warming. Key lesson components include: Recapping knowledge of the continental shelf and its role in carbon storage Introducing the Convex Seascape Survey and its research on seabed carbon Comparing carbon storage potential of different ecosystems through an interactive quiz Clarifying key carbon-related terms and units Engaging in a decision-making exercise to evaluate various climate action strategies The lesson features a mix of activities, including class discussions, quizzes, and a group debate. It aligns with the KS3 Geography and Science curricula, covering aspects of climate change, ecosystems, and environmental management. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain how ocean and coastal habitats help store carbon Describe how human activities can disrupt blue carbon capture and storage Evaluate the importance of protecting blue carbon habitats Analyse and compare different climate action strategies This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to think critically about complex environmental issues and the potential of nature-based solutions to climate change. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understanding how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate. Understanding how human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems. Communicate geographical information in a variety of ways, including through maps, numerical and quantitative skills, and writing at length. Cross-curricular connections Science: ecosystems, carbon cycle Mathematics: working with large numbers and units, area calculations, proportions and ratios PSHE: discussing personal and societal responsibilities towards the environment

Encounter Edu links curriculum aligned education with global burning issues to inspire STEM careers and encourage environmental stewardship. Learn more about what we do at www.encounteredu.com or by visiting our TES Shop, filled with quality, free of charge resources. Introduce your students to the oceans! A 60-min lesson with practical activities suitable for 11-14 year olds, replicating the work of scientists on the Catlin Arctic Survey 2010-11. The scientists camped on the frozen sea ice for two months to examine what changes are occurring to phytoplankton and zooplankton in the oceans’ current state, as well as if they were to become more acidic. Includes three simple practical activities: what’s happening the impact it may have on specific marine organisms the impact on the larger food web.

This lesson brings the KS3 curriculum to life, seamlessly blending key concepts from biology, chemistry, and physics into a cohesive exploration of Earth’s systems. Through a carefully crafted series of activities, students will: Unravel climate change’s impact on our oceans, discovering how seemingly small changes can create ripple effects across entire ecosystems. Engage in a dynamic card sort activity that challenges them to categorise and connect various aspects of climate change, from causes to consequences. Get creative by designing an eye-catching diagram that visually represents the complex web of linkages in climate change. Develop critical thinking skills as they analyse how human activities contribute to climate change and how these changes affect Earth’s delicate balance. Gain a deeper appreciation for the role of oceans in regulating our climate, tying together concepts of heat transfer, atmospheric science, and marine biology. By the end of this lesson, students will not only understand the science behind climate change but also feel empowered to discuss its far-reaching impacts on habitats, ecosystems, and human societies. This comprehensive approach ensures that students grasp the interconnectedness of Earth’s systems and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Aligned with key KS3 curriculum links, this lesson provides a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning. It’s an ideal way to spark curiosity, foster environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation of climate scientists and ocean advocates. Curriculum links Science KS3 Biology Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things. Chemistry Earth and atmospheric science, including climate change and its effects on the environment. Physics Energy, heat transfer, and the role of the atmosphere and oceans in regulating climate. Learning outcomes Connect climate change to changes in the ocean List and describe climate change impacts in the ocean Categorise the different aspects of climate change and its impacts Create a diagram to show the linkages in climate change

This final lesson serves as a summative assessment for the Ocean and Climate unit, allowing students to demonstrate their grasp of key concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios. The assessment covers a range of topics including: Blue carbon ecosystems and their role in climate mitigation Human activities on the continental shelf and their impacts Ocean ecosystem services and their importance International climate agreements and ocean protection strategies The lesson is structured around a comprehensive written assessment that includes various question types, from knowledge recall to data analysis and synthesis. This format allows students to showcase their understanding across different skill levels. Key components of the assessment include: Multiple-choice questions to test basic knowledge Short-answer questions to assess deeper understanding Data interpretation tasks related to ocean acidification Extended response questions on ocean protection strategies Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understanding how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate How human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems Using a range of methods including maps, numerical and quantitative skills to analyze information

This lesson introduces students to the concept of ecosystem services, with a focus on the ocean environment. Students will explore the vital benefits that healthy ocean ecosystems provide to all humans, particularly coastal communities, and examine the impacts of climate change and resource exploitation on these services. Key lesson components include: Understanding the concept of ecosystem goods and services Exploring specific ecosystem services provided by ocean environments Investigating human impacts on ocean ecosystem services Examining case studies of coastal communities affected by ecosystem degradation Reflecting on the fairness and sustainability of ocean resource exploitation The lesson incorporates engaging activities such as mind mapping, cause-and-effect diagramming, and group presentations. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of human-environment interactions, resource management, and sustainability. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the concept of ecosystem goods and services, with a focus on the ocean Discuss human impacts on ocean ecosystem services Describe challenges faced by coastal communities due to ecosystem degradation Reflect on the fairness and sustainability of ocean resource exploitation This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to consider the interconnectedness of human well-being and ocean health, fostering critical thinking about environmental sustainability and social justice issues. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate Economic activity Locational knowledge of environmental regions Cross-curricular connections Science: Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things

This engaging lesson takes students on a journey through the history of ocean and climate science, policy, and activism. By creating a timeline, students will explore the interconnections between scientific discoveries, policy decisions, and public action in addressing ocean-climate issues. Key lesson components include: Exploring the historical development of our understanding of ocean-climate systems Creating a multi-track timeline of key events in science, policy, and activism Analysing connections between scientific discoveries, policy changes, and public action Identifying and discussing success stories in ocean-climate protection efforts The lesson centres around a collaborative timeline creation activity, supplemented by group presentations and class discussions. It aligns with KS3 Geography and Science curricula, covering aspects of environmental history, scientific progress, and civic engagement. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Identify key scientific discoveries related to ocean-climate systems Understand how these discoveries have influenced policy decisions Recognise the role of ocean-climate focused activism in driving change Appreciate success stories in ocean-climate action This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to see the big picture of ocean-climate issues, fostering an understanding of how science, policy, and public action interact to address global environmental challenges. Curriculum links Geography KS3 How human and physical processes interact to influence, and change landscapes, environments How human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Analyse and draw conclusions from geographical data, using multiple sources of increasingly complex information Cross-curricular connections Science: scientific attitudes connecting research and policy PSHE: living in wider world