New data shows that 2024 has officially become the hottest year on record, with the average temperature of the Earth rising by 1.5°C. Around 200 countries had previously agreed to try to keep the global temperature increase below this level because scientists warn that higher temperatures could lead to more extreme weather events, including heatwaves, storms, and wildfires. Understanding Climate Change in the Classroom To begin the discussion, the class can examine this week’s poster, which highlights recent extreme weather in Lahore, Pakistan. Lahore regularly experiences floods during the monsoon season (June to September), and in recent years, these floods have become increasingly severe. Experts believe this worsening is linked to climate change. What Is Climate Change? Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of Earth's average temperatures and weather patterns. These changes are having significant effects worldwide, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events – such as severe floods, heatwaves, and droughts. Why Should We Discuss Climate Change? Sharing facts and personal knowledge about climate change helps raise awareness in the classroom. It’s important for pupils to read about why climate change is happening and to reflect on the impact of rising temperatures globally. Discussions can focus on whose responsibility it is to address climate change – should it rest with individuals, educators, world leaders, or all of us? News Reports and Expert Insights Watching news videos, such as recent reports featuring climate scientists, can offer deeper understanding of the important points and current actions being taken. Classes can discuss whether current measures are enough and what else could be done. Climate Change: Global Impact and Local Action Climate change impacts not only the environment, but also people and animals around the world. Rising sea levels, wildfires, and changing rainfall patterns are just some of the challenges communities face. Understanding why slowing down climate change is important helps children see the value in taking action. What Can We Do? Students and families can make small changes—such as using less energy and recycling—to help lower their environmental impact. Schools or communities can work together to start recycling programmes or plant more trees. Looking at practical resources and action lists can help identify the most effective steps for positive change. The Role of Leadership Governments and world leaders have an important role in making decisions and setting policies to protect the environment. However, changing habits and systems can be harder for some countries or people due to economic, geographic, or social challenges. These discussions help everyone better understand the scope of climate change and the shared responsibility we all hold. Reflection and Responsibility It is essential for everyone—from individuals to world leaders—to take responsibility for caring for our planet. Our everyday actions can have a direct impact, and collective reflection on these responsibilities is an important part of school assemblies and classroom discussions. Ideas for Classroom Activities Organise a school council meeting to brainstorm planet-friendly projects—like launching a recycling challenge or starting a tree planting initiative. Let everyone share their ideas and vote for their favourite! Create a climate change awareness campaign with posters, leaflets, or videos. Encourage classmates to adopt simple habits such as recycling, walking instead of driving, or saving energy. Make a climate change impact map by marking extreme weather and climate effects around the world. Add action notes for each region to inspire practical solutions. Make a simple rain gauge to track rainfall at school or home. Use the collected rainwater on school gardens, helping plants while conserving water. Useful Resources This week’s news story: BBC News Watch the useful video – 2024 first year to pass 1.5°C: YouTube Join the discussion: Virtual Picture News Key Vocabulary Climate change: The long-term change in the Earth's average temperatures and weather conditions. Involved: Being part of something important, like helping to make a decision. Decision: An important choice made by an individual or a group. Extreme weather: Types of weather that have a significant impact on communities and the environment. Monsoon season: A period of heavy rain in some hot countries, for example in parts of Asia during summer. Responsibility: A job or duty to help manage or care for something, such as the planet. Further Exploration Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
