Weeks 15-18: Climate Change and a 50-Year Energy Plan for Oregon

In this final unit of the year students will learn about climate change and develop a 50-year plan for Oregon that address the energy needs and environmental concerns of Oregonians.  Students will study the causes, mechanics, effects and solutions to climate change, as well as the pros and cons of many power options.  They will have one lab write up due, and one more notebook grade.  There will be a small quiz about climate change, but there will be a paper and not a test at the end of the unit.  Also in this unit students will prep for and participate in debates, although this grade will be for Mr. Blevins class.

Unit Goals

1. Explain details of Climate Change and the Greenhouse effect, including causes, effects, and solutions.
2. Describe pros and cons on multiple energy sources and conservation methods.
3. Develop a 50 Year Energy Plan for Oregon that addresses both energy needs and climate change.
4. Evaluate your 50 Year Plan in terms of costs and benefits.

Key dates:

• Last day for retake on Power Production Unit Test  May 17
• Energy City Project due May 20 or 21
• Solar Power lab due  May 22 or 23
• Binders due and quiz on climate change  June 4 and 5
• 50 year energy plan report due  Last day of school.

Expected Binder Table of Contents

1. Voices of the World/ Background Research
2. Climate Science Notes
3. Feedback Loop Diagrams for Climate Change