Initial Publication Date: July 7, 2011

Lab 4: Deforestation and the Carbon Cycle

The lab activity described here was developed by Candace Dunlap of TERC for the EarthLabs project.

Summary and Learning Objectives

In Part A of this Lab, students will learn about the effects of deforestation on the carbon cycle, climate and the environment. In Part B, students use the Global Forest Cover data tool developed by the World Resources Institute to conduct their own research on changes in forest cover.

After completing this investigation, students will be able to:

  • Describe the relationship between forests, climate and the carbon cycle;
  • Describe how deforestation causes changes in the carbon cycle;
  • Describe the reasons for deforestation; and
  • Use the Global Forest Cover tool to research and keep track of changes in forest cover over time.

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Overview and Teaching Materials

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Printable Materials

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Teaching Notes and Tips

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Student Notebooks

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Assessment

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Science Standards

Lab 4 supports following Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Additional Resources

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