looking up into the tree canopy at a particularly large and impressive tree.
6-8

In this activity, students model the movement of carbon atoms in the carbon cycle and explore the relationship between atmospheric carbon and plants.

The purpose of the activity is to teach students that carbon may be found in a variety of places and that it moves from location to location. While carbon cycles geologically over millions of years, this activity’s primary focus is the biological component of the carbon cycle that happens on a much shorter timeframe.

teachers choice 2020 award logo

Project Learning Tree’s Carbon & Climate curriculum for grades 6-8 has been selected a Learning Magazine 2020 Teachers’ Choice Award for the Classroom winner!

Learner Objectives

  • Students will participate in an active simulation of the carbon cycle.
  • Students will create a model of the carbon cycle.
  • Students will calculate the amount of carbon a tree can sequester.