Activity Overview
The scientific community generally agrees that the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is causing an increase in average global temperatures, known as the Greenhouse Effect. This is where the Sun's radiation enters the Earth's atmosphere in a range of wavelengths. The Earth absorbs this radiation and emits it as infrared radiation. Some of the radiation is radiated back into space, but some of this infrared radiation is absorbed by the greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. This causes the atmosphere to warm up.
In this activity, students will create a model of the greenhouse effect. Using labels and arrows, they'll show how radiation moves throughout the atmosphere. To scaffold this activity, consider adding arrows or labels and letting students fill in the blanks.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a model of the Greenhouse Effect in a storyboard.
- Click "Start Assignment"
- Find an appropriate scene to show the greenhouse effect. (Look for the rainbow scene in Mythical and Futuristic!)
- Add characters and items as necessary.
- Use arrows to show the movement of energy.
- Label the main parts of the greenhouse effect with Textables.
- Add extra information about the greenhouse effect with text boxes. Describe what is happening at each stage.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 16 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Parts | All the parts have been identified. | Most of the parts have been identified. | Some of the parts have been identified. |
| Description of Parts | All the parts have a clear description which contains good scientific vocabulary. | Most of the parts have a clear description. | Some of the parts have a clear description. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
The scientific community generally agrees that the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is causing an increase in average global temperatures, known as the Greenhouse Effect. This is where the Sun's radiation enters the Earth's atmosphere in a range of wavelengths. The Earth absorbs this radiation and emits it as infrared radiation. Some of the radiation is radiated back into space, but some of this infrared radiation is absorbed by the greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. This causes the atmosphere to warm up.
In this activity, students will create a model of the greenhouse effect. Using labels and arrows, they'll show how radiation moves throughout the atmosphere. To scaffold this activity, consider adding arrows or labels and letting students fill in the blanks.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a model of the Greenhouse Effect in a storyboard.
- Click "Start Assignment"
- Find an appropriate scene to show the greenhouse effect. (Look for the rainbow scene in Mythical and Futuristic!)
- Add characters and items as necessary.
- Use arrows to show the movement of energy.
- Label the main parts of the greenhouse effect with Textables.
- Add extra information about the greenhouse effect with text boxes. Describe what is happening at each stage.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 16 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Parts | All the parts have been identified. | Most of the parts have been identified. | Some of the parts have been identified. |
| Description of Parts | All the parts have a clear description which contains good scientific vocabulary. | Most of the parts have a clear description. | Some of the parts have a clear description. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about The Greenhouse Effect Model
How to facilitate a classroom debate on the greenhouse effect
Encourage critical thinking by organizing a class debate on the greenhouse effect. Assign students to represent different viewpoints, such as scientists, policymakers, and citizens. This activity helps students analyze evidence and practice respectful discussion while deepening their understanding of climate science.
Set clear debate goals and roles
Explain the objective of the debate and assign or let students choose roles (e.g., climate scientist, government official, concerned citizen). This structure gives purpose and fosters engagement from the start.
Prepare research materials for all sides
Gather articles, data, and visual aids about the greenhouse effect. Provide resources for each perspective so students can build informed arguments and use evidence during the debate.
Guide students to craft opening statements
Have each group or individual write a clear opening statement that summarizes their viewpoint. This step boosts confidence and helps students organize their thoughts before speaking.
Moderate the debate and encourage respectful rebuttals
Act as moderator to ensure everyone has a chance to speak. Remind students to listen actively and use respectful language when responding to others' points. This builds a safe and positive classroom environment.
Wrap up with a reflection activity
After the debate, ask students to reflect on what they learned and how their views may have changed. Use a quick write, group discussion, or exit ticket to consolidate learning and spark ongoing curiosity about climate science.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Greenhouse Effect Model
What is the greenhouse effect and how does it work?
The greenhouse effect is the process where the Earth's atmosphere traps some of the Sun's energy. Solar radiation passes through the atmosphere, is absorbed by the Earth, and re-emitted as infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases absorb some of this heat, warming the atmosphere and maintaining temperatures suitable for life.
How can students model the greenhouse effect in the classroom?
Students can create a model of the greenhouse effect by drawing or constructing a diagram showing the Sun's radiation entering the atmosphere, energy absorption by Earth, and infrared radiation's interaction with greenhouse gases. Using arrows, labels, and text boxes helps illustrate each stage clearly.
Why are greenhouse gases important in the Earth's atmosphere?
Greenhouse gases are crucial because they trap heat in the atmosphere, keeping Earth's climate warm enough to support life. Without them, our planet would be too cold, but too many greenhouse gases can lead to global warming.
What are some easy ways to explain the greenhouse effect to students?
An easy way to explain the greenhouse effect is to compare it to a blanket that keeps Earth warm. Use visuals, models, or storyboards to show how sunlight enters, is absorbed, and heat is trapped by greenhouse gases.
Which greenhouse gases contribute most to global warming?
The main greenhouse gases contributing to global warming are carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). These gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, increasing Earth's average temperature.
More Storyboard That Activities
The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming
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