Research shows that place-based learning that focuses on the New Jersey-specific effects of climate change and the local actions that impact global trends are more likely to make a lasting impact on students.
Using NJ ADAPT Tools to Integrate Climate Data into Curriculum
Developed in partnership with Rutgers Climate and Energy Institute, New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center & Rutgers CMSCE.
Lesson 1: Using Regression to Explore Climate Change Impacts on Mean Seasonal Precipitation or Mean Daily Maximum Temperature in New Jersey
- Students will go to https://climatedashboards.rutgers.edu/ and explore “Climate Change Impacts on Mean Seasonal Precipitation in New Jersey”, or on “Mean Daily Maximum Temperature” for the years 2001-2020. They will record the data points for historical data on a table. They will then plot the points on a scatterplot either on paper, or on Desmos.com (teacher preference). Students will create a line of best fit (using Desmos or visual approximation on paper). Students will discuss the benefits of using a line to represent the data, and make predictions within the data set to compare to the actual values, as well as make predictions based on their lines.
- Lesson Designed for Middle School Mathematics & Science Standards
- Lesson 2: Homeowner Helper - Flood Risk Analysis
- Students will use the activity and NJ Adapt flood mapper to analyze risk of flooding to specific areas where people live. They will help make a decision as an objective party about whether homeowners should sell their property to the government through the Blue Acres Program due to flooding risk. Students will use the process of scientific inquiry, and math skills such as arithmetic, analysis, and justification to analyze the flooding situation in specific areas and help homeowners make a decision based on risk. Students will synthesize data gathered from multiple mediums (video, article, government website) to understand the intent and purpose of the Blue Acres Program.
Lesson Designed for Middle School Mathematics, Science, & Social Studies Standards
- Lesson 3: My Climate Story
- The lesson "My Climate Story" guides students through an exploration of climate change impacts on their communities using data analysis and visual storytelling. It consists of three parts:
- Notice & Wonder – Students analyze art that represents climate change and discuss findings in small groups.
- Climate Snapshot – They explore climate data from their community using online tools, identifying trends and public health implications.
- Visual Representation – Students create an artistic piece (painting, drawing, digital, or sculpture) that visually represents their climate data and its impact. The project includes an art piece, a written explanation of its significance, and a properly cited data reference. A rubric evaluates creativity, data integration, and clarity in storytelling.
- This lesson encourages students to critically assess climate data and creatively express its effects on their environment.
- Lesson Designed for Middle School Visual & Performance Arts, ELA, and Science (could be adapted for upper elementary or high schoolAccess All Resources Here
- The lesson "My Climate Story" guides students through an exploration of climate change impacts on their communities using data analysis and visual storytelling. It consists of three parts:
Climate Change Units:
Developed in partnership with Sustainable Jersey & Rutgers CMSCE
- The Benefit of Trees: A 15-20 Hour Project-Based Learning Unit
This free, interdisciplinary unit examines the environmental, social, and ecological benefits of trees. Designed for middle or high school sustainability or environmental science electives, it can also be used as a summer program. The training includes ready-to-use lesson plans, presentations, and student materials. Through active, inquiry-based learning, students will engage in data collection, analysis, and discussions to understand how trees address climate change. Topics include urban heat islands, carbon sequestration, equitable access to green spaces, and the positive impact of increasing tree canopy coverage on communities.
- Integrating Climate Change into Curriculum using New Jersey Resources and Datasets
This resource provides guidance on incorporating state-specific climate-related resources into OpenSciEd's 7th-grade Unit 7.6, Earth's Resources and Human Impact. These place-based learning opportunities connect climate change concepts to the real-world impacts on students’ communities and New Jersey.
Additional Resources
- Rutgers Climate and Energy Institute - Climate Education Resources