Challenges to Food Security: Climate Change
Examine how climate change impacts food production and exacerbates food insecurity in various biomes globally.
Key Questions
- Analyze the specific ways climate change (e.g., drought, floods) threatens agricultural yields.
- Explain how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations' food security.
- Predict the long-term consequences of unchecked climate change on global food systems.
ACARA Content Descriptions
About This Topic
Water Security in Australia examines the management of our nation's most precious and scarce resource. This topic (AC9G9K02) focuses on the competing demands for water from agriculture, industry, cities, and the environment. Students investigate the Murray-Darling Basin as a key case study of the challenges of water allocation and the impact of climate change on water availability.
Students will also look at the innovative ways Australia is trying to secure its water future, including desalination, water recycling, and the 'buy-back' of water for the environment. This unit is essential for understanding the geographical and political tensions that define Australian life. Students grasp this concept faster through simulating the 'water market' and negotiating between different users.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: The Murray-Darling Water Market
Students are assigned roles as cotton farmers, environmentalists, town mayors, and Indigenous elders. They must 'negotiate' for a limited amount of water during a drought year.
Inquiry Circle: Where does your water come from?
Groups research the water source for their local area (e.g., a dam, an aquifer, or desalination). They create a 'water journey' map showing how it gets to their tap.
Think-Pair-Share: The Price of Water
Students discuss in pairs whether water should be free for everyone or if making it expensive is the only way to stop people from wasting it. They share their views with the class.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionAustralia has plenty of water because we are surrounded by ocean.
What to Teach Instead
We are the driest inhabited continent, and most of that ocean water is too salty to use without expensive treatment. A 'water availability' map helps students see the reality of our freshwater resources.
Common MisconceptionDams are the only way to solve water shortages.
What to Teach Instead
Dams rely on rain, which is becoming less predictable. A 'water solutions' brainstorm helps students explore alternatives like recycling and desalination.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Murray-Darling Basin so important?
What is 'water stress'?
How does desalination work?
How can active learning help students understand water security?
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