Earth Artistically Balanced

Lunar and Planetary Institute, Universities Space Research Association

Students first learn about the complexities of Earth's climate system and the different factors contributing to Earth's energy balance. Then, students categorize the factors that influence climate as warming or cooling factors. Finally, students design art pieces to depict the science behind Earth's climate system and share these artistic creations with families and communities.

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Notes from our reviewers

The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials.

It is suggested to have a climate scientist involved in the activity. Given the complexity of the concepts involved (eg. climate systems, energy balance), it would be important to attend to students' misunderstandings and misrepresentations throughout the design process. The resources linked at the beginning of the activity are helpful for providing foundational understandings. Time is needed before the activity to gather art supplies and other materials. Teachers might want to consider referencing the [link https://cleanet.org/clean/literacy/tools.html 'CLEAN elementary support guides'].
Students create an artistic representation of how Earth's systems are balanced. This requires students to learn background information on the complex climate system before embarking on the artistic endeavor of creating a piece. For example, students learn about warming factors, such as darker surfaces that absorb light energy and power plants burning fossil fuels. They explore cooling factors, such as reflective clouds. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
Engaging, hands-on, arts-integrated activity. This activity has students learn about the complex climate system of Earth through a series of discussion questions and a short activity. The students unite the science with art by making a balancing mobile using materials that represent the different factors contributing to the system.