If you are a high school science teacher looking for some engaging and thought-provoking climate science learning activities, then here is a great resource for you. Princeton University has a Stabilization Wedges Game that engages students in identifying and justifying eight strategies (wedges) to reduce carbon emissions over the next several years.

This simulation is very solution-oriented with students learning about a menu of strategies that could drastically reduce our global carbon emissions and therefore reduce the impacts of climate change. Students work together to make a visual model of their proposal that takes into account multiple stakeholders. Groups of students then also provide feedback on other groups’ proposed solutions. The focus on solutions is something that many high school students crave and it brings a positive focus to a topic and challenge that can feel daunting.

This activity aligns nicely with not only Next Generation Science Standards on climate but also on engineering design. Students break down a complex problem into smaller problems, evaluate potential solutions, and consider criteria and constraints including social, cultural and environmental impacts.

The Climate Stabilization Wedges Game is FREE online and comes with:

• Teacher’s Guide
• Game Materials
• Large Gameboard

I have used this as a professional development activity with teachers and it has been very successful. I’d love to hear from anyone who has used this with high school students. Enjoy.