Active learning ideas
Environmental sustainability and climate change are perhaps the most pressing issues of our time. This topic covers the science of global warming, the concept of 'sustainable development,' and the effectiveness of international agreements like the Paris Accord. Students analyze the roles of governments, corporations, and individuals in mitigating environmental damage.
Activity 01
Groups are assigned one pillar of the Singapore Green Plan (e.g., City in Nature, Energy Reset). They research the progress made and present a 'feasibility report' on whether the targets can be met.
Who should bear the greatest responsibility for combating climate change?
Activity 02
Students represent Developed, Developing, and Small Island nations. They must negotiate a global carbon tax, dealing with the reality that those least responsible for climate change are often the most affected.
Is sustainable development an oxymoron?
Activity 03
Students discuss whether individual actions (like recycling) or systemic changes (like carbon laws) are more effective. They share their views on where the 'burden of proof' for change should lie.
How effective are international climate agreements?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Sustainable development means we have to stop all economic growth.
Sustainable development is about 'decoupling' growth from environmental impact through innovation and efficiency. Using a 'case study' of green tech companies helps students see that sustainability can actually drive new forms of growth.
Climate change is a problem for the future, not today.
The impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather and rising sea levels, are already occurring. A 'gallery walk' of current environmental crises around the world helps students realize the urgency of the issue.
Methods used in this brief
Ethics of Scientific and Technological Advancements
Evaluate the ethical dilemmas posed by rapid advancements in fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. Students will consider the need for ethical frameworks.
8 methodologies
Public Health and Global Pandemics
Analyze the societal and economic impacts of global health crises. Students will evaluate the preparedness of nations and the role of the WHO.
8 methodologies