The carbon cycle
There is a large degree of cross-over between chemistry and biology with this topic and to fully understand the cycling of carbon, prior knowledge of photosynthesis, respiration, microbes, decomposition, the formation of fossils from organic matter and the products of burning fossil fuels is necessary before students can begin to link these together. This list of resources are linked to these topics:
- the carbon cycle
- the composition of the atmosphere
- the production of carbon dioxide by human activity and the impact on climate.
Visit the secondary science webpage to access all lists: www.nationalstemcentre.org.uk/secondaryscience
Whilst this list provides a source of information and ideas for experimental work, it is important to note that recommendations can date very quickly. Do NOT follow suggestions which conflict with current advice from CLEAPSS, SSERC or recent safety guides. eLibrary users are responsible for ensuring that any activity, including practical work, which they carry out is consistent with current regulations related to health and safety and that they carry an appropriate risk assessment. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.
Plankton and Global Warming *suitable for home teaching*
This resource contains a link to detailed teacher notes to run an activity looking at the different timescales involved in the carbon cycle. There is an accompanying video and bank of different resources that can be used to carry out the activity.
Molecules of Life
A series of games on the carbon cycle, drawing molecules, building molecules and chemical top trumps. These are really fun games that encourage problem solving and we are accompanied by explainer videos aimed at the teacher delivering the activity.
Exchanging carbon dioxide between the atmosphere and ocean
Teacher notes and a student worksheet for an activity to demonstrate the carbon dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and the oceans. This is a good experiment that will emphasise this particular part of the carbon cycle.
Carbon cycle caper
In this excellent activity students act out the carbon cycle. There are three games in the resource, with students divided into eight teams to represent the major processes: photosynthesis, respiration, eating, combustion, absorption, release, dying and decomposition. Students race against time to complete their tasks which adds a sense of excitement.
Birmingham Institute for Forest Research (BIFoR) resources
The Birmingham Institute for Forest Research (BIFoR) is home to the BIFoR FACE facility, one of the world's largest climate change experiments where 150 parts per million extra of carbon dioxide is added to areas of the oak forest, to predict the impact on the ecosystem 50 years into the future.
BIFoR has provided free resources for schools which include curriculum linked activities, developed to support secondary school students. Resources include opportunities for learners to consider the impact of climate change on forest ecosystems, learn about transpiration and to take a virtual trip through the woodland. A virtual leaf trap activity allows students to explore how elevated carbon dioxide levels affect infection by fungal pathogens.
