Examining Climate Change and its Impacts in North Carolina Through Problem Based Learning

Wendy Kimball, Earth & Environmental Science, Northwest School of the Arts

Final Unit (PDF)

Implementing Common Core Standards (PDF)

200 Word Synopsis

This unit focuses on global climate change and its impacts specifically to North Carolina and the Charlotte region. The unit is divided into three areas:  climate change, impacts of climate change, and mitigation and adaptation.  Students will be divided into groups to answer a problem related to climate change in the North Carolina/Charlotte region.  Each task will have a different way to present the students knowledge such as a book, poster/mural, plays, public service announcements, and models.  The following scenario is an example of problems presented in the unit:  You are a member of Charlotte’s city council.  As a member of city government you are responsible for city planning (how the land is used, roads, and public transportation).  A proposal has been placed before you to approve increasing funding for public transportation.  It would improve sidewalks and bike lanes, city buses, and the light rail.  Taking the environment and economics into consideration, would you approve this funding?  Create a proposal explaining your reasoning.