"Climate Detective" framing

Introduction
Engaging 2026 scenario ("Climate Detective" framing), essential questions, and context for why the topic matters
Task

Four specialist roles (Climate Scientist, Ecologist, Policy Analyst, Solutions Engineer) with three deliverables: written report, data exhibit, oral presentation + individual reflection journal

Process

12 detailed, scaffolded steps across 4 phases (Foundation → Investigate → Create → Present), with a team synthesis meeting and peer review built in

Evaluation

An 8-criterion rubric (64 points total), grading scale (A–F), and a +4 bonus for students who present their Action Plan to the school administration

Conclusion

Reflection prompts, extension activities, carbon footprint tools, and Teacher Notes with NGSS/Common Core alignment

Credits

15+ curated links to NASA, NOAA, IPCC, IEA, EPA, WWF, Project Drawdown — tagged by specialist role, all from credible .gov / .edu / scientific organizations