Distance Learning

9th-12th Grade | Virtual Exploring Earth Science: The Shenandoah Salamander and Climate Change

Grade Level:
High School: Ninth Grade through Twelfth Grade
Subject:
Science
State Standards:
Virginia science standards - ES.1, ES.6., ES.11, ES.12, BIO.1, BIO.7, BIO.8, 
Virginia English standards - 9.1, 9.6, 9.8, 10.1, 10.6, 10.8, 11.1, 11.8, 12.1, 12.8

Climate change is defined as any significant change in the climate lasting for decades or longer. Climate patterns can vary naturally, but today’s climate changes are being accelerated by human activity. Although scientists cannot yet predict with certainty what the long-term impacts from climate change will be, there is ample evidence that climate change effects are already being felt within national parks. Students will research climate change and the potential impact on two salamander species found in Shenandoah National Park, the endangered Shenandoah salamander and the more common red-backed salamander. Students will collaborate to research and develop a potential species survival and recovery plan for the Shenandoah salamander. This is a two-part virtual program (one hour each) done 2-4 weeks apart with a research project in-between sessions. This field trip is recommended for ninth through twelfth grade.

Unit Objectives


Following the park experience and classroom activities, the students will be able to

  1. define climate change and list examples of natural and human-influenced contributors to climate change;
  2. assess/predict the potential impact of climate change and species competition on the survival of the Shenandoah and red-backed salamanders;
  3. explain the “greenhouse effect” and articulate the connection between atmospheric gases and global temperature;
  4. determine ways people can reduce their contributions to climate change;
  5. create a potential species survival and recovery plan to prevent the potential extinction of the Shenandoah salamander.

Standards

State science standards: ES.1, ES.6., ES.11, ES.12, BIO.1, BIO.7, BIO.8, 
State English standards: 9.1, 9.6, 9.8, 10.1, 10.6, 10.8, 11.1, 11.8, 12.1, 12.8

Materials

Download hs: Earth Science: Shenandoah Salamander and Climate Change

Tags: virtual field trip climate change salamander

Last updated: April 17, 2023