Changes Ahoof: Could Climate Change Affect Arctic Caribou?

• In this lesson, students explore how climate change is impacting populations of caribou in the Arctic. 
• Students will run a computer model, analyze the results, engage in a discussion, and create a board game to demonstrate their learning.  

• The student activity sheet is well-constructed and easy to use.
• The educator references show a sample data output as well as the results of all nine variable combinations.
• Students create a board game to share with their classmates!

• Be sure to review the background information with students so they understand how the two variables in the simulation affect caribou populations.
• Students will need to know how to do a percent increase/decrease calculation.

Differentiation

• You can choose whether or not to have students create board games. Perhaps you can offer it as an extension or extra credit assignment.
• It may be best to group students of varying abilities while they explore the computer model.
• Related resources include this article from NOAA on shifting migratory patterns, this interactive map showing migratory patterns, and this StC Lesson Plan called Climate Confusion.