English 9-10

This New York Times article explores the emerging alternative energy industry and how it relies on another resource, water, to function. The article can be used to discuss the societal aspects of alternative energy and resource limitations, such as conflicting interests between the public and industry and economic implications.

This New York Times article explores how the surge in electricity-consuming gadgets, including cellphones, iPods and personal computers, has led to greater energy consumption. The article also discusses the role of the government, industry and trade organizations on energy usage.

Encourage your students to develop reading comprehension skills with Earth Gauge Climate Fact sheets and backgrounders. Students learn the basics of how climate and weather systems work, how changes in climate impact them and what scientists are doing to learn more.

This article from BBC News traces the key milestones, scientific discoveries, technical innovations and political action relating to climate change. Information is presented in a timeline.

Using the Nebraska rangeland as an example, students will explore the concept of public lands. Students will learn the intended use of public lands and the conflicts that arise among users by examining the history, politics and science of range management. The lesson plan includes reading, group discussion and activity, research and a reflective paper.