SUMMARY

This series of short videos produced by NSF presents the carbon cycle and climate change. The videos answer a series of questions in an informative and entertaining way: Where does the carbon in the atmosphere come from? How does carbon get into the oceans, and how much is in there? How will increased amounts of carbon affect plants and animals? What will increased carbon do to life in the oceans?  Each video addresses one of these questions.

GOALS

• Students will learn the basics of the carbon cycle.
• Students will learn about the carbon distribution of the earth and its importance to plant and animals.
• Students will learn about the role of carbon and carbon dioxide in relation to warming and its effects on ocean and aquatic life.

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION AND TEACHING MATERIALS

Each of these videos can be viewed by clicking on the play button. If you click on the video image it will fill the screen.

 Much of the carbon we are burning is not staying in the atmosphere. What's happening?

 Where does the carbon in the atmosphere come from?

  How does carbon get into the oceans, and how much is in there?

 Is the oceans' ability to absorb carbon decreasing?

How will increased amounts of carbon affect plants and animals?

 Plants need nitrogen. Can they get enough to meet the increased levels of carbon dioxide?

What will increased carbon do to life in the oceans?

TEACHING NOTES / CONTEXT FOR USE

These videos can be used in any class where the carbon cycle is being addressed in relation to climate change. The videos provide a very accessible introduction to several aspects of the topic by answering common questions that any student might ask.  Although serious scientific concepts are discussed, the nature of the presentations is such that even junior high school students can understand the key points.
 

SHORT DESCRIPTION

These are videos address common questions about the carbon cycle and climate change, including the relationship between them.