Students will engage in a hands-on investigation to explore the relationship between photosynthesis, the carbon cycle, and climate change. They will analyze real-world data to understand how environmental factors influence CO2 levels and temperature, and develop models to illustrate these processes. By acting as citizen scientists, students will create informative products tailored for an elementary or middle school audience, fostering a deeper understanding of Earth's systems and the impact of human activity on climate patterns. The project will kick off with a quick demonstration activity that vividly illustrates the impact of CO2 on the environment, setting the stage for deeper inquiry and analysis.

Students will develop models to illustrate the transformation of light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis and explore its role in the carbon cycle. They will investigate the impact of environmental factors on CO2 levels and temperature, using real-world data to analyze climate change patterns. Through hands-on activities, students will evaluate the effects of water properties on Earth's materials and processes, while also forecasting climate change impacts using geoscience data. Finally, students will communicate their findings to an elementary or middle school audience, choosing engaging formats to contribute valuable insights to the public discourse on climate change. The project will kick off with a dynamic demonstration that highlights the relationship between photosynthesis and CO2, providing an immediate and impactful introduction to the unit.

Students will engage in a hands-on demonstration activity to measure CO2 levels and temperature variations, collecting real-world data efficiently. They will develop models to illustrate the carbon cycle and photosynthesis processes, using these models to predict climate change impacts. As citizen scientists, students will compile their findings into a comprehensive report and create visual presentations tailored for an elementary or middle school audience, allowing them to choose the format—such as infographics, videos, or interactive displays—to effectively communicate the connection between environmental factors and climate change.

Begin with an interactive demonstration using a simple yeast and sugar solution in sealed containers to observe CO2 production. Facilitate a discussion on initial observations and predictions about how increased CO2 might affect photosynthesis and climate. Introduce the essential question and encourage students to brainstorm ways they can investigate and communicate their findings to elementary or middle school students through creative formats such as infographics, videos, or presentations.

Students will host an engaging science fair tailored for elementary or middle school students, presenting their findings on photosynthesis, the carbon cycle, and climate change. They will create interactive displays and models that are informative and visually appealing, allowing younger audiences to grasp complex concepts through hands-on activities. Students will present their work through various formats such as infographics, videos, or live demonstrations, ensuring a dynamic and educational experience for all attendees.