Extreme Summer Weather Explained by Climatologist
Ask students: Why are we seeing more frequent intense, heat waves? What string of years have been the hottest in Earth’s recorded history?
Summary
A heat wave is baking much of the country, leading to record highs and triple-digit temperatures in the Midwest and the South. It’s the latest in a series of extreme weather events that have led to damage, destruction and death this summer. Amna Nawaz discussed more with Michael Mann of the University of Pennsylvania and author of the forthcoming book, “Our Fragile Moment.”
For a transcript of this story, click here.
News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
Five Facts
- Why are we seeing more frequent intense, heat waves?
- How many people died in Europe’s heat wave last year?
- Who is Michael Mann?
- What string of years have been the hottest in earth’s recorded history?
- Where are floods happening?
Focus Questions
Do you think the government should be doing more to address climate change?
News analysis: How can news outlets report on tragic events while still being respectful to those who are effected?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?
For More
What students can do: Discuss with a friend, neighbor or classmate — how can we make progress against climate change? What are some mitigation techniques (things you can do to make a difference) to deal with extreme heat?
Student Video of the Day (September 19, 2019)
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
Lesson Plans on Climate Change
Explore more resources for educators to find a wide-range of relevant preK-12 lessons on climate change or supporting young people as they continue to lead the conversation around the climate change crisis.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Want to see more stories like this one? Subscribe to the SML e-newsletter!
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
Advertisement
