Climate Change and the Arctic

Climate change is resulting in a warming of the Arctic climate. No one can be certain of the nature or extent that climate change will have on the Arctic marine ecosystem until it happens, though scientists can make predictions.

Refer to the photos and text provided below and draw comparison diagrams of the Arctic marine ecosystem as it is today and how it will be 100 years from now.

Instructions

I. Singly, or in pairs, students will draw a diagram of the Arctic marine ecosystem. Using creativity, include:

• at least four trophic levels
• ten groups of organisms
• labels for all organisms
• some indication of relative abundance of organisms
• representation of the relationships between organisms

II. Draw a parallel diagram of the organisms in the Arctic marine ecosystem in the 22nd century. Use your imagination, but be sure you can back up the differences between the two diagrams with reasoning and logic that is based in fact.

III. Create a chart that describes the differences between the two diagrams, and includes the logic and reasoning behind all your predictions.

Extensions

I. Using your diagrams, communicate your prediction to others. Use one of these options or invent your own:

• photocopy your diagrams onto overheads and orally present to your class
• create a PowerPoint presentation with your diagrams, showing the changes, step-by-step
• expand your diagrams to fill up a large poster
• create large, full-colour murals with your classmates for display in the classroom or hallway
• create an animation using paper or computer to reveal the changes step-by-step
• stage a diorama with a 3D representation of organisms and their habitats

II. Discuss with your classmates the different predictions in the class. Why do these differences exist? What implication does this have for our society’s handling of issues like climate change in the Arctic?

Further Research

I. Research scientific models that predict the changes in Arctic climate and their impact on the marine ecosystem. How do your predictions compare?

II. Research why climate change in the Arctic is considered so important on a global scale.

Teacher’s Note

There are no right or wrong answers to this activity. Success is exhibited by demonstration of an ecosystem, the use of reasoning and logic to back up predictions, and in the clear communication of those predictions.

Judith Wearing

© 2007, Canadian Museum of Nature. All Rights Reserved.