Science Breakdowns

When discussing climate change, sustainability, and the effects of human activities on our environment, one notable area to highlight is the alarming rate of extinctions on our planet and what has caused it. This CNN video special looks at five areas affected by climate change and here are my video notes for students to answer and use for class discussions. It can also be used as an emergency sub plan or for online learning. Download Includes:1x editable “Vanishing: The 6th Mass Extinction” Vid

This Kurzgesagt bundle is a curated compilation of video notes that are related to climate change and health. It also includes an additional article sub plan on our world's population growth and energy crisis. There are currently 12 total assignments, updated as of March 2022. All assignments are no-prep, have answer keys, and include thought-provoking discussion questions. They may be used as an in-class activity or sub plan!

When discussing population dynamics and sustainability, we often wonder about the carrying capacity of our planet. While scientists estimate Earth can sustain 9-10 billion people, students are generally curious about how scientists calculate human impact. This National Geographic article gives insight to the effects of human overpopulation, how we can measure it, and how we can address those issues. The accompanying article questions can be shared digitally, used for classroom discussions, and

Do we need nuclear energy to stop climate change? This Kurzgesagt video examines how much we depend on fossil fuels and the steps that we would have to take to transition from fossil fuels into nuclear energy and renewables. I use the video notes to review key concepts and to guide classroom discussions on the issue. The video notes may also be used as an emergency sub plan if students have access to the video. Note: This assignment does not include a teacher's guide. Download Includes:1x editab

For our students and ourselves, what are the best ways that we can help fix climate change? This Kurzgesagt video explores the industries that contribute the most global emissions, the economics behind cutting back usage, the maximum impact of one average INDIVIDUAL, and the realistic solutions we need take to mitigate the effects of climate change. I use the video notes to review key concepts and to guide classroom discussions on the issue. The video notes may also be used as an emergency su

When looking at who contributes the most to CO2 emissions, students might think that every person in the world contributes a similar amount as we do. This Kurzgesagt video gives insight to the events that have led us to the situation we are in today, while also looking at some of the consequences of climate change and those who are most affected. To help students have a deeper understanding the topic, I use the video notes to review key concepts, guide classroom discussions on the issue, and exp

Climate change is a complicated issue and students may feel overwhelmed or hopeless when thinking about the future. This Kurzgesagt video looks at four factors that explain why CO2 emissions are rising and how we can stop that. I use the video notes to review key concepts, guide classroom discussions on the issue, and explore their own carbon footprints. The video notes may also be used as an emergency sub plan if students have access to the video. Note: This assignment does not include a teache

What is the true impact of meat consumption? Is it better if we choose local and/or grass-fed options? This Kurzgesagt video takes a detailed look at the environmental impact of meat consumption through its production to transportation, packaging, and waste. I use the video notes to review key concepts and to guide classroom discussions on the issue. The video notes may also be used as an emergency sub plan if students have access to the video. Note: This assignment does not include a teacher'

Nuclear energy is often perceived as more dangerous than it actually is. This Kurzgesagt video compares the risks of nuclear energy versus coal, as well as other renewable resources. I use the video notes to review key concepts and to guide classroom discussions on the issue. The video notes may also be used as an emergency sub plan if students have access to the video. Note: This assignment does not include a teacher's guide. Download Includes:1x editable “How Many People Did Nuclear Energy Kil