Science·Matter & Materials·conceptual
Earth's Atmosphere & CO2
Describe the composition of Earth's atmosphere (mainly nitrogen and oxygen, with small amounts of CO₂ and other gases), explain how human activity increases CO₂, and describe the impact on global climate
Suggested ages 12–14
Evidence of understanding
- States the approximate percentages of nitrogen, oxygen, CO₂, and argon in the atmosphere
- Explains how burning fossil fuels and deforestation increase atmospheric CO₂
- Describes the greenhouse effect and how it leads to climate change
- Discusses one specific consequence of climate change (e.g. rising sea levels, extreme weather)
Assessment prompt
If Earth's Atmosphere & CO2 was asked why scientists are worried about CO₂ levels rising, could they explain what CO₂ does in the atmosphere, why human activities produce more of it, and what effects it's having on the planet?
Standards alignment
MS-ESS3-5US · ngss-ms
MS-ESS3-5
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Chem.EA.2GB · uk-nc-2013
Composition of the Atmosphere
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3
KS3.Sci.Chem.EA.3GB · uk-nc-2013
Carbon Dioxide and Climate Impact
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3