Earth's Climate: Balance and Disruption
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Earth's Climate: Balance and Disruption
Understanding how our planet's climate systems work Year 6 Science 30 minutes
Quick Recap: Weather vs Climate
Weather = what happens day to day Climate = average weather over 30+ years Temperature depends on: Sun's energy, distance from equator, altitude Remember: Greenhouse effect isn't always bad!
Big Question to Think About
Is climate change a natural process or a human problem? Think about what you already know We'll explore this together today
Earth's Natural Greenhouse Effect
Sun sends energy to Earth Earth's surface warms up Earth gives off heat Greenhouse gases trap some heat This keeps Earth warm enough for life!
Model the Greenhouse Effect
Step 1: Sun shines energy (torch) Step 2: Earth absorbs energy (black paper) Step 3: Earth releases heat Step 4: Atmosphere traps some heat (clear plastic) Let's see it in action!
Important Greenhouse Gases
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) - from breathing, burning Water vapor (H₂O) - from evaporation Methane (CH₄) - from animals, farms These gases act like a blanket around Earth
Natural vs Enhanced Greenhouse Effect
{"left":"Natural greenhouse effect keeps Earth at perfect temperature for life\nEnhanced greenhouse effect happens when humans add extra greenhouse gases\nBurning fossil fuels releases more CO₂","right":"More greenhouse gases trap more heat\nThis makes Earth warmer than normal\nThis causes climate change"}
Complete the Climate System Diagram
Work with a partner Fill in the missing labels Draw arrows to show energy flow Explain each step to your partner
What Happens When Systems Are Disrupted?
More greenhouse gases = more heat trapped Ice caps melt, sea levels rise Weather patterns change Some places get hotter, some get more storms Animals and plants struggle to adapt
Analyze the Impact
If greenhouse gases keep increasing, what might happen? Think about: • Temperature changes • Weather patterns • Sea levels • Wildlife
Extension Challenge: Future Predictions
Look at the temperature data from 1900-2020 What trend do you see? Predict what might happen by 2050 What could we do to change this trend? Present your ideas to the class
Key Learning Summary
Earth's greenhouse effect is natural and necessary Human activities add extra greenhouse gases This enhances the greenhouse effect Enhanced greenhouse effect causes climate change We can understand and predict these changes