Antarctica: Science, Governance & Climate
Students will explore Antarctica as a continent dedicated to scientific research, the principles of the Antarctic Treaty, and its critical role in global climate studies.
Key Questions
- Explain why Antarctica is the only continent without permanent human residents or sovereign government.
- Analyze how the Antarctic Treaty exemplifies international cooperation for scientific purposes.
- Predict the global impacts of melting polar ice caps on coastal cities worldwide.
Common Core State Standards
About This Topic
Global Sustainability & Our Future serves as the capstone for the 7th grade geography curriculum, challenging students to use everything they have learned to solve the world's most pressing issues. Students explore the concept of 'global citizenship' and how geographic thinking can be applied to challenges like climate change, resource inequality, and sustainable urban planning. The unit emphasizes the role of technology and personal action in creating a more equitable and healthy world.
This topic is the ultimate application of geographic analysis. It aligns with standards regarding the use of geographic tools to solve problems and the role of individuals in a globalized society. This topic comes alive when students can physically model the patterns of a sustainable future through collaborative problem-solving and action planning.
Active Learning Ideas
Inquiry Circle: The Global Citizen Project
Groups identify one global problem (e.g., plastic in the ocean or food waste) and research how it is being solved in different parts of the world. They must propose a 'local action' that their school or community could take to help.
Simulation Game: The Future World Summit
Students represent different regions of the world and must negotiate a 'Global Sustainability Goal' for the year 2050, balancing the needs of developed and developing nations.
Think-Pair-Share: My Geographic Footprint
Students reflect on where their food, clothes, and energy come from. They share with a partner one change they could make to their own habits to improve the geography of their local and global community.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionGlobal problems are too big for one person to make a difference.
What to Teach Instead
Global change is the result of millions of local actions. The 'Global Citizen Project' helps students see the direct link between their own choices and global outcomes.
Common MisconceptionSustainability is only about the environment.
What to Teach Instead
It also includes economic and social factors, like fair wages and equal access to education. Peer discussion of the 'Future World Summit' goals helps students see this broader definition of sustainability.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a global citizen?
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How can technology help with sustainability?
How can active learning help students prepare for the future?
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