RSS - Teaching dossiers - Educapoles.org

Energy: 13 activities to do in class

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:55:01 +0200

This document brings together several activities to accompany some of our flash animations on energy. These activities can, however, be used separately. For each of the 13 themes, an activity and a summary of the related theory is proposed. The themes for the 13 activities: What is energy? The sun, world's driving force The route taken by energy Grey energy How did fossil fuel form in the ground? Nuclear energy Biomass The wind, blowing for your benefit When energy consumption causes pollution What consequences? Saving energy Transports Choosing our future

CZE Exercise Booklet

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 01:00:57 +0200

The International Polar Foundation has created an exercise booklet for its Class Zero Emission project. This booklet includes sixteen "ready-to-use" exercise sheets, for students aged 10 to 14 years. The themes are identical to those of the CZE workshop (climate change, polar regions, polar science and sustainable development). The booklet features a whole range of exercises, including a complete the missing words exercise, experiments, games and analysing a text. The booklet is designed to fit into the overall CZE experience, but it can also be used as a standalone teaching tool Some of the exercises can be done in conjunction with the other CZE tools, available for free on this website (pedagogical dossiers, flash animations, etc.)

Princess Elisabeth Station Antarctica (CZE6)

Fri, 08 May 2009 01:00:38 +0200

The last CZE pedagogical dossier deals with the Princess Elisabeth Station, a marvel of sustainable development built in one of the most hostile environments on the planet, Antarctica. In this dossier one can discover not only the layout of the first ever "Zero Emission" station, but also its special design and technical aspects (energy production, passive heating, waste management, etc.). Thanks to the student activity sheets of this dossier, the youngest students (<12 years old) can learn fascinating information about the station, while older students can build their own wind turbine in class, and the oldest students (15-18 years old) can discover the various technical aspects of the station.

Sustainable Development: What Is It? (CZE5)

Thu, 07 May 2009 01:00:21 +0200

Following the release of the first four CZE teaching dossiers on the Polar Regions and current climate change, this fifth dossier explains the concept of sustainable development and its origins. It also examines how sustainable our present way of life is, and gives examples and suggestions on how to evaluate our own impact on the environment. The theoretical part of this dossier may seem a little more complex than in previous ones; however the activities proposed in this dossier are simple and can accommodate every age category. Younger students (<12 years old) can use beautiful images that can spark discussions about sustainable development. Older students can conduct a survey at the supermarket, and the oldest (15-18 years old) can reconstruct a chain of events, which when analysed, can raise numerous questions pertinent to sustainable development.

Climate Change: Consequences for the Planet and the Polar Regions (CZE4)

Wed, 06 May 2009 01:00:43 +0200

Following the third dossier, which discussed the mechanisms of current climate change, this fourth teaching dossier in the CZE series explains the present consequences of current climate change and its possible consequences for the future (sea level rise, shortage of fresh water, consequences for the biosphere, etc.) based on the different scenarios that experts have proposed. As part of the activities related to this topic, three student activity sheets will allow the youngest students (<12 years) to understand and experience the melting of the ice and the difference between sea ice and ice caps and ice sheets. Older students will develop their critical thinking skills by examining the information published in the press. The oldest (15-18 years old) will be able to analyse and discuss how society might respond to climate change. Don't hesitate to have a look back at the first pedagogical dossiers of this series, which discuss "The Polar Regions" and "People in the Polar Regions".

Climate Change: What Is It? (CZE 3)

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 01:00:28 +0200

In the previous two dossiers of the CZE series, you were able to discover "The Polar Regions"and follow the adventures of "People in the Polar Regions" who have been braving the extremes. The fourth dossier will explain the major stress climate change has been putting on these pristine regions of the planet. But you can already discover what climate change is, how it works, and how we discovered it was happening in the present pedagogical dossier "Climate Change (part 1): What Is It?". Accompanying student sheets allow the youngest students (<12 years) to become meteorologists and learn the difference between weather and climate. They will also allow older students to re-create the greenhouse effect in class, while the oldest students (15-18 years old) will learn about the various things they can do to reduce greenhouse gasses. Other activity ideas will be given in the dossier along with resources.

People in the Polar Regions (CZE2)

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:59:51 +0200

Following on the heels of the first pedagogical dossier "The Polar Regions", "People in the Polar Regions" is the second dossier in the "Class Zero Emission" series. Not only does it discuss the various peoples who live in the Arctic, but also the people who have explored the Arctic and Antarctic throughout history (Vikings, explorers, scientists, adventurers and tourists). Several learning activities related to this subject are suggested in the dossier. Among other things, you can find handy student activity sheets. They can help the youngest students (<12 years) learn about the kind of clothing people wear in the Arctic and how well certain materials can insulate people from the cold. Older students will be able to take part in a polar adventure through organising their own polar expedition, and the oldest students (15-18 years), can study the logbook from an Antarctic expedition.

The Polar Regions (CZE 1)

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 01:00:46 +0100

The International Polar Foundation has created six pedagogical dossiers for its "Class Zero Emission" project. These documents, which are all available on the Educapoles website, act as a complement to the CZE exhibition, although they can also be used independently. This first dossier presents various aspects of the Arctic and Antarctic. The six-page theoretical section provides information about geography, climate, fauna and flora, legislation and the various threats to the regions. The ready-to-use student dossiers will allow younger students (<12 years) to explore the link between the animals and their environment; they will help middle-school students (12-15 years) develop their skills in analyzing topographic maps; and they will provide older students (15-18 years) material they can use to conduct debates thanks to the many resources the dossiers provide. Other activities are also suggested.

The BELARE expeditions

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:00:24 +0100

Now that the BELARE 2007-2008 expedition is still fresh in our mind, the International Polar Foundation has taken the opportunity to publish a new pedagogical dossier: 'BELARE: the station was not built in a day!' The first construction phase of the station has been successfully completed! The station has been erected on top of the ridge! But how does one go about to start such a project? Which steps need to be taken and in which order? One thing is for sure: initiating such a project requires a lot of preparation work. The adventures linked to the conception and building of the project are now available for educational purposes in this pedagogical dossier. This particular dossier offers a perfect introduction to "The station: from the inside out!". The BELARE expeditions and Princess Elisabeth Station are explained to the pupils in a playful way, using a crossword puzzle.

The station: from the inside out

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:00:20 +0100

This dossier offers great information on the external and interior design of the Princess Elisabeth Station and suggests several activities which can be done during and after class. The dossier is aimed at children between 12 and 18 years old. Other pedagogical dossiers of the same series include the "Belgians in Antarctica" dossier and the "BELARE expeditions" dossier which describes, step by step, the preparation phases of the Princess Elisabeth Research Station construction. Also included are a number of exciting adventure stories.

The technical aspects of the station: energy-efficiency and wastewater treatment

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:00:09 +0100

This pedagogical dossier describes the technical aspects of the Princess Elisabeth station, including its energy-efficient design and how water will be recycled and re-used. The Princess Elisabeth station is the first ever 'zero emission' station. However before it can earn this status, numerous tests must be conducted. Based on the results of these tests, the most optimal systems and technologies will be chosen so that the station will be as energy-efficient as it can be and capable of re-using wastewater as optimally as possible. But which systems are these? Can they also be used in your home? How is the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station like a passive house? Find out the answers to these questions by discovering the key sustainable attributes of the station.

Belgians in Antarctica

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:00:07 +0100

Sixty years after the King Baudouin base, the construction of the Princess Elisabeth Station sees the dawning of a new age for Belgium in Antarctica. This event has stirred the interest of the youth towards the Polar Regions. The International Polar Foundation therefore created educational dossiers with pedagogical sheets for the teachers and matching working sheets for the pupils. These documents have been published on the Internet in successive stages until March 2009 (the end of the International Polar Year). This first dossier 'Belgians in Antarctica through the centuries' is designed to give the pupils a general overview of Belgium's role in Antarctica.

Biodiversity: Things We Can Do

Fri, 09 May 2008 01:00:49 +0200

This sheet introduces the concepts of direct and indirect CO2 emissions. It also offers a list of things you can do to reduce your environmental footprint and thus also your greenhouse gas emissions. The "Preserving Biodiversity: things we can do in our everyday lives" sheet is part of the larger educational dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. To put theory into practice, the sheet suggests carrying out an expriment on CO2 and volcanoes. At the end of the sheet, a list of resources is offered for those who wish learn more.

Biodiversity in the North Sea

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 01:00:07 +0200

The "Biodiversity in the North Sea" sheet is part of the pedagogical dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. This sheet evaluates the impacts of climate change in the North Sea, such as the emergence of new species which have been encouraged by an increase in the water temperature. This sheet also tackles the rising sea level phenomenon. On a practical level, the sheet offers a group experience to be conducted in class concerning sea level rise. The aim of this experience is to better understand the link between ice melt and sea level rise. At the bottom of the sheet, you will find references to gather further information.

Biodiversity in the Fagnes

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 01:00:17 +0200

The sheet « Biodiversity in the Fagnes » is part of the pedagogical dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. The Fagnes area holds a unique ecosystem with species you wouldn't be able to find elsewhere. This is notably the case for the black grouse, otherwise known as the blackgame. Climate change is seriously threatening the microclimate encountered in the Fagnes area, to such an extent that it could come to disappear. On a practical level, the sheet offers an activity "Everything is tied together" in order to better understand the key concepts involved in an ecosystem and the food chain. This sheet also supplies references for those willing to take a step further.

Biodiversity in Belgium

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 01:00:30 +0200

The sheet on « Biodiversity in Belgium » is part of the pedagogical dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. This sheet introduces the effects of climate change on Belgium's biodiversity. Amongst other subjects, you will find information on the northerly migration of "cold" species and the emergence of "thermophile" species. A group activity is suggested to learn about the concept of invasive species and the risks that are associated. Finally, this sheet also provides resources for further reading.

Biodiversity in the Arctic

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 01:00:38 +0100

The sheet on "Biodiversity in the Arctic" is part of the pedagogical dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. This sheet offers an introduction to the two types of polar ice that are the pack ice and ice caps, and to two Arctic ecosystems: the taiga and tundra. This sheet also talks about climate change and how it is causing both the pack ice and permafrost in the Arctic region to melt.

Biodiversity - Coral Reefs

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 01:00:48 +0100

The sheet on "Coral Reefs" is part of the Biodiversity & climate change dossier. This sheet focuses on the effects of climate change on coral reefs. It explains the relationship of symbiosis that exists between the polyp and algae within each coral head. It also introduces the effects an increased water temperature can have on the coral environment, that is coral bleaching and sea water acidification. To put theory into practice, the sheet presents a group activity that will demonstrate how excess water acidity affects the marine environment. It also offers resources from which you can gather further information.

Biodiversity - Natural Rhythms

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 01:00:02 +0100

The educational sheet on "Natural Rhythms" is part of the Biodiversity & Climate change dossier. This sheet shows how climate change has impacted the oak tree's natural rhythm. It also goes into how this change in rhythm affects species which depend on the oak tree for survival, such as the caterpillar, the great tit and the pied flycatcher. On a practical level, a group activity is suggested to allow schoolchildren to better understand the food chain concept. At the end of the sheet, resources are offered for further reading.

Biodiversity and Food

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:00:25 +0100

The "Biodiversity and Food" sheet is part of the larger educational dossier on Biodiversity & Climate change. It evaluates the impacts of climate change on fisheries and agriculture as well as their significance for the Southern countries which have become highly dependant on these two sectors of activity. To put theory into practice, the sheet suggests a group activity "A little gardening" to illustrate how climatic conditions can affect watercress plantations. It also offers references for those who wish to go a step further.

Invasive species

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 01:00:02 +0100

The "Invasive Species" sheet is part of the larger educational dossier on Biodiversity & Climate Change. As it is suggested by its name, this sheet offers an introduction to invasive species as well as to the damage they can cause, whether from an ecological, economical or health perspective. A group activity called "Down with the invaders!" is presented as a giant memory game. It enables the pupils to gain further knowledge on the invasive species found in Belgium. As a matter of fact, they have now been blacklisted. References are given for those who wish to go further in their research.

The benefits of biodiversity

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 01:00:11 +0100

This sheet is part of the educational dossier associated with the CD-Rom on Biodiversity & Climate Change. In which way does biodiversity help the Earth? This is the question to which the educational sheet will try to answer. Amongst other things, this sheet explains the role assumed by biodiversity in pollinating of vegetable species, as well as the importance of vegetable species in regulating water flow. This sheet suggests an activity, entitled "Permeable or Not", which will allow you to test the permeability of various grounds. It also offers a couple of references for further reading.

Biodiversity: Relocation of Species

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 01:00:24 +0100

The educational sheet "Relocation of Species" focuses on the effects of climate change on the geographical distribution of species. In reaction to climate change, all species are relocating to suit their climate needs. While some of these species have an easier time than others, all of them face the difficulty of following the unrestrained rate of climate change. Practically speaking, the sheet offers an activity on "travelling seeds" that will raise children's awareness on seed dissemination. References are listed for further information.

Biodiversity and climate change

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 01:00:09 +0100

The educational sheet "Climate Change" offers an overview of the various Greenhouse gases. It focuses on the importance of agriculture in total Greenhouse gas emissions. The Kyoto Protocol is also presented as a political tool for fighting climate change. Earth's "climate future" is tackled at the end of the document, with consideration of the climate refugee issue. To put theory into practice, the sheet offers instructions to carry out an experiment in the classroom which will illustrate the Greenhouse gas effect. References have been added for those who wish to learn more about the subject.

The biodiversity - teaching dossier

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:00:20 +0100

This sheet provides additional information to the biodiversity flash animation. You will find figures concerning biodiversity loss and explanations on the importance of tropical forests for biodiversity, the FSC-label and the concept of agroforestry. To put theory into practice, this educational sheet proposes a group activity: "Species and their Respective Climates". This game illustrates biodiversity and the way each species relies on a particular climate to survive. At the end of each theme, references are given for those who wish to collect further information.

Impacts of Climate Change on Humans

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 01:00:52 +0100

This 47 pages teaching dossier details the various impacts that climate change has on mankind. A large number of natural systems are affected by regional climate changes that are caused by an increase in temperatures. The effects of major weather events, the increase in sea levels and the impact on natural systems and the biosphere all have repercussions for human populations.

Oceans

Mon, 21 May 2007 01:00:03 +0200

This 23-page dossier presents the oceans as the essential parts of our planet for each and every life form. This dossier tackles their origins, movements and importance regarding biodiversity and the global climate system.

The ice drift

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 01:00:08 +0200

This 4 pages fact sheet explains the forces causing the drifting of the Arctic sea ice. Propelled by the combined action of the winds and currents, the Arctic ice can move up to speeds covering several kilometres a day! This movement is called "ice drift".

Polar Science

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 01:00:36 +0100

30 pages introducing polar science, explain its developement and contribution to the understanding of our climate system.

“The Migration of the Ibanes”: learning by images add-ons

Mon, 12 Jun 2006 01:00:25 +0200

The following pictures extend the "learn by images" activity on sustainable development proposed with the teaching dossier "The Migration of the Ibanes".

“The Migration of the Ibanes” : teachers’ dossier

Fri, 26 Aug 2005 01:00:50 +0200

The teachers' dossier is intended to supplement the "Migration of the Ibanes" comic book, with theoretical elements on climate change and sustainable development, suggestions for different activities and complementary resources.

“The Migration of the Ibanes” : students’ dossier

Fri, 26 Aug 2005 01:00:39 +0200

The students' dossier supplements the "Migration of the Ibanes" comic book, with ready-to-use exercises on climate change and sustainable development. You can find additional instruction for these exercises in the corresponding teachers' dossier.

“The Migration of the Ibanes”: role play

Thu, 25 Aug 2005 01:00:21 +0200

This teaching dossier complements the comic book "The migration of the Ibanes" by proposing a role play for discovering various aspects of sustainable development. Instruction for this activity can be found in the main teaching dossier.

“The Migration of the Ibanes”: learning by images

Thu, 25 Aug 2005 01:00:08 +0200

This specific teaching dossier complements the comic book "The migration of the Ibanes". It gives some "learning by images" proposals for discovering various aspects of sustainable development. This activity is described in the main teaching dossier.

Water and ice on the earth

Sat, 30 Apr 2005 01:00:47 +0200

16 pages answering common questions: Is there a lot of fresh water on earth? Where does rain come from? Why do icebergs float? Can we recover salt from seawater?

Fossil and renewable energies

Fri, 29 Apr 2005 01:00:46 +0200

14 pages of explanations and fascinating experiments for discovering energy, its origins and distinguishing renewable from non-renewable energies.

Astronomic phenomena

Fri, 29 Apr 2005 01:00:36 +0200

12 pages explaining the planetary cycles, the long polar night, aurorae boreales and solar eclipses. Available in French only.

Easy classroom experiments

Sat, 19 Mar 2005 01:00:32 +0100

These easy classroom experiments are designed to accompany the International Polar Foundation's teaching dossiers. They aim to anchor students' know-how by putting theory into practice with concrete examples. Available in French only.