A Learning Activity is a strategy a teacher chooses to actively
engage students in learning a concept or skill using a digital tool/resource.
You may save this Learning Activity to your hard drive as an .html file by
selecting “File”,then “Save As” from your browser’s
pull down menu. The file name extension must be .html.
Phase:
During/Explore/Explain
Activity:
1. The students will need a blank sheet of paper and a pencil. Students may also use colored pencils/pens/crayons/markers to add color to their model if desired.
3. The students should begin by writing the three facts about the carbon cycle at the top of their paper. Then, the students should turn their paper sideways (landscape orientation) for the rest of the presentation.
4. The teacher should use the interactive presentation to explain the steps of the carbon cycle. As the teacher presents the information, the students should draw the model on their paper. The teacher should be sure to encourage students to add additional notes or other important ideas to the diagram.
Note: The teacher should be sure to thoroughly explain to students what to draw, while also explaining the scientific concepts related to the carbon cycle. The teacher should feel free to add to and expand upon the basic explanation of the carbon cycle depicted in the slide show.
Example script: "First, draw a line going across the middle of your paper. Color everything below this line brown. This represents the rocks of Earth's crust. Now, draw the sun and a few clouds. These items show that the carbon cycle is a natural process that happens within the geosphere and atmosphere. Now, write the note 'Carbon dioxide is in our atmosphere'. This step is where we will begin our discussion of the carbon cycle, although it truly has no 'beginning' or 'end'."
5. Present the question on the second to last slide. Have students think about the answer to the question, then share their answer with a partner. If time allows, have students volunteer to share their answers with the class.
6. Review the "Takeaway Points" with students to reiterate the key vocabulary words and ideas related to the carbon cycle.
Assessment Strategies:
On the back of the paper with students' models, have students complete a 3-2-1 assessment by writing:
3 things they learned about the carbon cycle
2 ways they play a role in the carbon cycle on a daily basis
1 question they still have about the carbon cycle
The teacher should collect students' papers to assess their model created during the activity. The 3-2-1 response will allow the teacher to assess students' understanding of the model. In addition, the teacher can address students' questions in future lessons.
Advanced Preparation:
The teacher will need internet access and the ability to project the presentation.
Each student will need at least one sheet of paper (notebook or blank white copy paper). Students will need a pencil. If desired, students can add color to their diagram with colored pencils/pens/crayons/markers.
Variation Tips (optional):
Notes or Recommendations (optional):
I would recommend teaching the water cycle prior to teaching the carbon cycle. The carbon cycle is sometimes difficult for students to understand because carbon dioxide is an invisible gas. Having a basic understanding of a more concrete and familiar biogeochemical cycle, like the water cycle, can be helpful.