Slowing Down an Amplifying Greenhouse Effect Lab

• In this two-part lab, students will learn about the pros and cons of technologies designed to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. 
• Topics covered in this lab include using algae as fuel for vehicles and various types of carbon capture or carbon sequestration technologies.
  

Positives:

• The infographics are colorful and detailed.
• There are a number of optional extensions provided to extend the lab.
  

Additional Prerequisites:

• Access to the Internet is required for this activity.
• Teachers must sign in to access the key.
  

Differentiation:

• Consider assigning some of the videos as homework and then have students work in pairs or groups to discuss the questions.
• This lab can be used by Engineering classes as an example of technological solutions that can help with a global problem. Consider having students research the carbon-infused cement or algae-based fuels.
• Science students can research the risks associated with pumping CO₂ into the soil to see if they are similar to the risks of fracking, such as more earthquakes or groundwater contamination.
• Have students design an energy-neutral and ecosystem-friendly means of growing/harvesting algae to use for an alternative fuel.
• Students can compare the solutions presented to their ranking of solutions on the interactive Project Drawdown table of solutions.
  

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