Rosie, (et al)
This is a very quick 'off the cuff' idea that will need further thought and
depends on space/group size/willing participants but could work.
You start with a pile of ballons. These represent carbon (bonus points for
scientific accuracy because they'll have lots of CO2 in them or you could
use plastic play balls from the early learning centre). You have several
areas (perhaps delineated by a hula hoops or similar) that represent
different stages in the cycle (dissolved in oceanic stores/in animals and
plants). The 'stored in fossil fuels' stage has a big pile of balloons
behind it.
Put one participant in each area, and get them to throw the balloons to the
next stage in the cycle (you should probably have a big diagram of it up on
a whiteboard etc in case they get confused). Some people might have a choice
where to throw it, this adds to the fun. If you particpants have trouble
remembering which hoop is which you could either try putting up signs,
making models, or using netball-type bibs with labels on to remind people
who they are.
Let the carbon cycle run for it a bit, with lots of people having fun
throwing balloons around a room.
Then start adding extra people into the 'stored in fossil fuels' hoop
throwing balloons out to the other players. This represents our increased
burning of fossil fuels since the industrial revolution. Watch at the other
areas struggle to cope with the rapidly increased levels of CO2/ballons
flying round the room, lots end up left on the floor (the atmosphere) and
general chaos ensues. You could try planting more trees, but perhaps that
hula hoop is of limited size, reflecting limited space on the earth's surface.
I must emphasise I've never actually tried this or thought it out properly
(and it's been a while since I've taught the carbon cycle) so there might be
lots of glitches, but if you've the confidence to try it with a group of
adults it might be a nice, visual and fun explanation for them.
I've definitely heard of people trying similar, perhaps anyone who has might
have improvements or warnings?
Best,
Lorna (I swear I was a PE teacher in another life).
Volunteers and Outreach Assistant - Oxford University Museums
Biology Teacher - Bellerby's College, Oxford.
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