Unit 3: Earth's Changing Climate

In the first case study, students explore the different ways that Earth is unevenly heated by the sun. They investigate the relationship between the angle of the sun’s rays hitting Earth’s curved surface and the resulting surface temperature, and analyze other factors that influence the uneven heating of Earth’s surface, including its orbit around the sun and albedo.

Once students understand how Earth’s surface is unevenly heated by the sun, they investigate how convection transfers heat around the planet, seeking equilibrium. They then explore how air masses are formed as a result of interactions between the atmosphere, geosphere, and hydrosphere, and cause changes in weather conditions around the planet as they move.

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In this case study, students focus on greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere, which trap energy from the sun and keep the planet at a livable 14 degrees Celsius. But scientists believe a dramatic increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, mostly caused by human activity, is related to global warming and climate change.

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Students use their scientific knowledge about Earth’s climate and the greenhouse effect to engineer greenhouses, using various methods to achieve the desired internal temperature range.