Expecting the Unexpected: Abrupt Climate Change

Notes from our reviewers

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• Teaching Tips
  Good companion video as enrichment for a class covering global warming, sea level rise, and uncertainties in science modeling. Could be shown as a starting off point for any discussion of the effects of climate change/sea level rise.
• About the Science
  Video discusses the possibility of abrupt climate change and tipping points. Also discussed are the current unknowns and lingering questions about the sensitivity of the cryosphere (or areas of ice and snow) and how some species in the ecosystem have the ability to adapt to new conditions while other species cannot. Comments from expert scientist: The interviews provide the viewer with an overview of what abrupt climate change is and how it affects the environment. Those interviewed use clear terms and expressions to convey the science of abrupt climate change.
• About the Pedagogy
  A diverse group of scientists are highlighted in the video. Students might need some prompting questions to stay focused on the scientist discussions.
• Technical Details/Ease of Use
  Video length is 7:24 min.