Discussion
This activity is all about learning about global warming. Start by asking question such as : what do we mean by global warming? what does it mean, how does it work and why does it matter?
Why not show them this video to better explain the greenhouse effect on the environment:
The Greenhouse Effect
The earth gets energy from the sun through sunlight that passes through the atmosphere that surrounds the earth. The earth’s surface absorbs this energy. This is how the earth warms up. Then the earth releases this energy as ‘infra- red radiation’ back into space. This is how the earth cools down again.
Some of this infrared radiation cannot pass through the atmosphere. This is because it is absorbed by ‘greenhouse gases’ in the atmosphere. This radiation is sent back to the earth and heats it up. This works like a greenhouse: sunlight comes in, but not all of it can go out again. This is how a greenhouse – and the earth – stay warm even if the sun is not shining. Without these gases, it would be very cold on earth because the atmosphere wouldn’t hold onto the sun’s heat energy.
There are several gases that absorb infrared radiation. The most important one is carbon dioxide. Others are methane, nitrous oxide and water vapour.
In the last few decades, the layer of greenhouse gases has become thicker and thicker because more greenhouse gases have been released into the atmosphere, so more and more heat is trapped inside. This means that the average temperature on earth is rising.
Activity
Split the group into smaller groups and get them to come up with a short play, story or animation about the greenhouse effect. Use make-up and costumes to portray the different roles.
Final Discussion
Ge the group think about the presentations and what changes can help reduce greenhouse effect. Other discussions questions for the group:
Did acting it out help you to understand how the earth’s climate changes?
Can you already see changes due to the greenhouse effect in your life?
Why is it important to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases?
Take it further
Share your video online and tag Woodcraft Folk. Who else could you share your film with that could make a change on the greenhouse effect?
This activity was adapted from the Handbook for Action Against Climate Change from our partners at IFM-SEI. With lots of useful background information and more activities for groups on the climate emergency.