Environmental science

Reflection: Climate Change

In this reflection, you are preparing a scientifically informed response to someone who expresses a question, or incorrect assumption regarding climate change.  You will identify the situation and audience, then write a narrative that informs your audience. 

Begin with a section title Situation and Audience, followed by a brief description.   Examples:

Situation and Audience: While at dinner, Uncle Joe remarks that the question of climate change is just a political one.

Situation and Audience: Hometown librarian requests a mini talk at the library on climate change.

Be creative, yet try to make this reflection something you could try out in the future.

After identifying the situation and audience, your reflection should include at least three (3) scientifically based points that explain the reason for, or nature of climate change. Write about each in a separate paragraph that includes a clear topic sentence that identifies your point. Follow each topic sentence with several sentences of supporting or explanatory text or graphics.  You should include evidence gained from our text and the links provided in the guided notetaking:  this reflection is not intended as a research project.  You are welcome, however to include additional resources. 

In a fourth paragraph, identify one effect of climate change that you believe might be most important to your audience, followed by supporting or explanatory text.

Finally, while no one person can solve the problem of climate change, suggest what you personally plan to do or think others might do in relation to the problem.  It is ok if you think the action is exceedingly small.  It is a first step.

Include references where appropriate.  Cut and paste of links is acceptable for website citations.  You may cite our course text as Environmental Chemistry (4th edition) by VanLoon and Duffy. 

There is no specific length requirement for the reflection; however, my estimate is it will take 500-1,000 words to do a good job.  VIEW THE RUBRIC before you begin so that you understand how points will be awarded.