Common Core State Standard L.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: Video of a current news event is presented for discussion to encourage student participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the video. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.
07/17/2017
Fewer babies could be better for the environment
A study found having one less child is the best thing an individual can do to fight global warming. But the option is rarely discussed. Having one less child would cut an individual's carbon emissions by 58 metric tons per year of their life, according to the analysis. To put that in perspective, living car-free would reduce someone's emissions by 2.4 metric tons per year.
■Class discussion: Would you consider the impact on the environment before deciding to have a child? Why or why not? Would you worry about the problems a baby would face growing up with a changing climate? What would you be personally be willing to do to slow down climate change? Would you be willing to give up owning a car or not eat meat? Can individuals do enough to affect climate change?