Active learning ideas
Climate change is the defining challenge for the current generation of students. This topic analyzes the causes and impacts of the global climate crisis, with a specific focus on Ireland's transition to a greener economy. Students examine the NCCA LCA Social Education module on environmental sustainability, looking at international agreements like the Paris Accord and local actions like the Climate Action Plan.
Activity 01
Groups audit different areas of school life: energy use, waste, and transport. They then create a 'Climate Action Plan' for the school with realistic targets for reduction.
What are the primary drivers of climate change globally?
Activity 02
Students debate the challenges of reducing carbon emissions in the agriculture sector while maintaining rural livelihoods. They must research both environmental needs and economic realities.
How is Ireland transitioning to a greener economy?
Activity 03
Students discuss whether individual choices (like recycling) or government policies (like carbon taxes) are more effective. They share their conclusions on how to best achieve rapid climate action.
What actions can individuals take to reduce their carbon footprint?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Climate change is only about the weather getting warmer.
Teachers should explain that it leads to more extreme and unpredictable weather, such as floods and storms, which we already see in Ireland. Active learning sessions using local weather data can help students see the immediate impact.
It's too late to do anything about climate change.
It is important to focus on 'climate hope' and the many solutions already available. Peer-led research into renewable energy and circular economy projects can show students that positive change is possible and happening.
Methods used in this brief
Ireland and the European Union
Exploring the history of the EU, its institutions, and how EU membership impacts daily life in Ireland.
8 methodologies
Global Inequality and Development
Investigating the divide between the Global North and South, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
8 methodologies