Changes Ahoof: Could Climate Change Affect Arctic Caribou?

• In this lesson, students explore how climate change is impacting populations of caribou in the Arctic. 
• Students will run a computer model, analyze the results, engage in a discussion, and create a board game to demonstrate their learning.  

• The student activity sheet is well-constructed and easy to use.
• The educator references show a sample data output as well as the results of all nine variable combinations.
• Students create a board game to share with their classmates!

• Be sure to review the background information with students so they understand how the two variables in the simulation affect caribou populations.
• Students will need to know how to do a percent increase/decrease calculation.

Differentiation

• You can choose whether or not to have students create board games. Perhaps you can offer it as an extension or extra credit assignment.
• It may be best to group students of varying abilities while they explore the computer model.
• Related resources include this article from NOAA on shifting migratory patterns, this interactive map showing migratory patterns, and this StC Lesson Plan called Climate Confusion.

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.