Climate Change Webquest

Climate Change: A Webquest for Students

In this webquest, students explore the topic of Climate Change, and the effects that each individual has on the environment. As I was searching for a good example of a webquest, I couldn't help but notice that most webquests are designed in the United States, and thus, the research sites and such may not be as relevant to Canadian citizens. What particularly drew me to this webquest was that it is not only a Canadian webquest, but it was developed right here in Saskatchewan - something that is not easy to find!

Curriculum Connections:
Grade: 7
Subject: Science
Unit: Saskatchewan: The Land
Within this unit, students look at the landforms in Saskatchewan and develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect nature of our landscape and climate. By exploring this, students will gain a deeper understanding that each individual contributes to some aspects of climate change, and that each individual can do their part to reduce threats of global warming and climate change, by doing really simple things!

How Would I use this Webquest in My Classroom?
As mentioned previously, this webquest is great because it was created and designed specifically for Saskatchewan students, making the resources, activities, and research more relevant to students. I would first have students participate in several different activities and lessons to give them a bit of an understanding of the landforms in Saskatchewan and the whole idea of climate change and global warming. I would then break students in to groups and have them work through the webquests. Webquests are great because the whole process is really outlined online, and it really gives the teacher a change to see how students become independent problem solvers.

How will this Webquest Benefit Students?
This webquest really helps students to gain a better understanding of a highly publicized, somewhat controversial topic: global warming and climate change. By participating in this webquest, students look at this complex issue from different angles and really get to see different perspectives. I believe that in doing this webquest, learning will become a lot more meaningful. Also, students will benefit because they have to work more independently from the teacher, as they try to solve meaningful, real life problems. This webquest applies to everyday life, and is thus very immediate and important. I think students would be quite engaged in this webquest, and would really strive to further their knowledge, as well as learn how to take action to prevent climate change. In addition, by participating in this webquest, students work on cooperative group work skills, persuasive skills, and develop a better understanding and responsibility for the world around them. Often, school is separated from the real world, but with this webquest, the real world is brought right into the classroom. I think it is so critical for students to learn to become active problem solvers who are capable of contributing to society - this webquest is a step in that direction!