This resource features a sequence of CEEE lessons that use the phenomenon of drought to explore the question, "What are the local impacts of drought and how do we build resiliency?"
Context for Use
Symptoms of climate change are all around us. Using local data and examples of drought is an effective way to teach that the impacts of climate change are affecting our communities now. Through this sequence of lessons, students will gain a deep understanding of how drought has a profound effect on people and ecosystems.
The lesson 'Connecting with special places in nature' helps students to value water as an important part of their lives. The role-playing 'Drought Game' and closure activity help students see themselves as citizens who can take positive actions in their community to reduce the harms of drought, leaving students feeling inspired.
Additional strategies for teaching climate impacts the Spanish-language version of this Principle are found on the CLEAN website.
Historic low water levels at Blue Mesa water reservoir. Credit: Tom Wood, Water Desk
Goals Header
Essential Climate Science Concept
Principle 7: climate change has consequences for the Earth system and human lives:
Climate plays an important role in the global distribution of freshwater resources. Changing precipitation patterns and temperature conditions will alter the distribution and availability of freshwater resources, reducing reliable access to water for many people and their crops. Winter snowpack and mountain glaciers that provide water for human use are declining as a result of global warming.
Teaching Materials
Description
Full Drought Sequence
A full guide to navigating these lessons including transitioning between them.
Lesson 1 - Connecting with Special Places in Nature
Students will watch a recorded interview about the importance of water in humans lives and then tell their own water memories.
Lesson 2- Megadrought in the Colorado River Basin
Students will analyze and interpret data to evaluate the cause of a decades-long drought (megadrought) across the Colorado River Basin.
Lesson 3- Exploring the Science of Drought in Colorado
Students will analyze environmental data to classify patterns of drought severity in Colorado.
Lesson 4- Drought Game
Students will evaluate information on drought conditions to appropriately use community resources to respond to a drought in their community by assessing the causes and effects of extreme drought.
Lesson 5- Closure Activity
Students will construct a social media post, including a photo and a short description to advertise a drought resilience strategy you plan to implement in your community.
