the period of geological time from 2.6 million years ago to the present

a long-term change in Earth’s climate patterns

a cylinder of ice extracted from an ice sheet or glacier which is used to analyse past climate conditions

Evidence for climate change in the Quaternary period

Geography

This unit teaches pupils about the evidence, causes and impacts of climate change. Pupils learn that climate change is not just a recent trend but that it has occurred natuarlly over geological time. Pupils will also learn about the strategic options associated with mitigation and adaptation.

Climate change

Which geological time period began 2.6 million years ago?

A glacial period is when temperatures drop significantly. {{}} periods are shorter, warmer periods.

Which of these sources of evidence about climate change could tell us about climates 400 000 years ago?

Melting glaciers, sea level rise and global temperature records are all used to provide evidence about {{}} climate change.

Average weather conditions of a place taken over a 30-year period 

The day-to-day conditions of the atmosphere at a particular place

Weather that is significantly different to the expected conditions

Match the correct definition to each key word.

Short-term fluctuation in local weather patterns 

Long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns on Earth

Carbon dioxide, helium and methane are all examples of {{}} gases.

By measuring the temperature of the ocean

By using satellite observations, aerial surveys, and ground-based measurements

By studying the behaviour of polar animals

How do scientists monitor changes to ice sheets and glaciers?

What name is given to maps which use colour scales to show how a variable (e.g. population density) changes over an area?

Starter Quiz