CCSAE: A Novel Climate Science Teaching Tool and Framework, Suitable for Ages 12 and Up

The “Coastal Climate Science Activities and Experiments” (CCSAE) tool is introduced as a novel, constructivist approach to climate change education for learners age 12 and up. It is intended to clarify the science of environmental problems that people have most likely heard of: rising sea level, ocean acidification, extreme and changing weather, harmful algal blooms, and changes to the Atlantic Ocean circulation. Integrating hands-on, accessible experiments with curated scientific resources, the CCSAE empowers students to build their own understanding of the science and impacts of climate change. This paper details the tool's core component: a cause-and-effect framework illustrating the connections between increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO<inf xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</inf>) and its detrimental impacts on coastal and marine environments. Pilot workshops with educators and students demonstrated the tool's potential for fostering engagement, curiosity, and the development of perceptive questions. The paper discusses the insights gained from the pilot workshops and how this tool can be used effectively in the classroom. Additionally, it highlights the urgent need for effective climate change education to address prevalent misconceptions and equip young people with the scientific literacy and environmental awareness necessary for informed action and the creation of sustainable solutions.