Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term - Senior Secondary 3

TERM – 1^ST TERM

WEEK SIX

Class: Senior Secondary School 3

Age: 17 years

Duration: 40 minutes of 5 periods each

Date:

Subject: Geography

Topic: CLIMATIC CHANGE

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

1. Explain climatic change and its causes.
2. Discuss the consequences of climatic change
3. Examine the measures taken by the Nigerian government to minimize the impacts of climatic change

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers,

demonstration, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Videos, loud speaker, textbook, pictures

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES

PERIOD 1-2

NOTE

CLIMATIC CHANGE

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of the Earth's climate system. It involves shifts in weather patterns over extended periods, ranging from decades to millions of years. While natural factors contribute to climate variability, the term "climate change" is often used to describe contemporary changes primarily influenced by human activities.

Causes of Climate Change:

1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect and warming of the Earth's surface.
2. Deforestation: Deforestation, the clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, or other purposes, reduces the number of trees that absorb CO2 through photosynthesis. This contributes to higher atmospheric CO2 levels and accelerates global warming.
3. Industrial Processes: Certain industrial processes release potent greenhouse gases, such as fluorinated gases, contributing to the warming of the atmosphere.
4. Agricultural Practices: Agricultural activities, including rice cultivation and livestock farming, produce methane. Livestock digestion and manure release significant amounts of methane into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.
5. Land Use Changes: Changes in land use, such as urbanization and changes in surface cover, can alter the Earth's albedo, reflecting more or less sunlight back into space. This can influence temperature patterns.
6. Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions release sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which can form aerosols that reflect sunlight back into space. While volcanic activity can temporarily cool the climate, its long-term impact is limited compared to human-induced factors.

Consequences of Climatic Change

The following are significant consequences of climatic change.

1. Increased global temperatures lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, affecting ecosystems, agriculture, and human health.
2. More frequent and severe events such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, and wildfires pose significant risks to communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
3. Melting glaciers and polar ice contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal areas, low-lying islands, and coastal communities.
4. The absorption of excess atmospheric CO2 by oceans leads to acidification, which harms marine life, particularly coral reefs and shell-forming organisms.
5. Changes in climate conditions may outpace the ability of some species to adapt, leading to shifts in ecosystems and potential extinctions.
6. Altered precipitation patterns and increased evaporation contribute to water scarcity, affecting agriculture, drinking water supplies, and sanitation.
7. Changing climate conditions impact crop yields, reduce agricultural productivity, and disrupt food supply chains, leading to increased food insecurity.
8. Changing climate patterns can influence the spread of diseases, increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, and exacerbate existing health challenges.

Measures Taken by the Nigerian Government to Minimize Climate Change Impacts

1. National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy: Nigeria has developed a National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy to guide climate action and promote sustainable development.
2. Renewable Energy Promotion: The government is working to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, with a focus on solar and wind power.
3. Reforestation and Afforestation: Initiatives aimed at planting trees to enhance carbon sequestration, prevent deforestation, and promote sustainable land management.
4. Climate Adaptation Programs: Implementation of climate adaptation programs to enhance resilience in sectors like agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure.
5. National Adaptation Plan: Development of a National Adaptation Plan to address vulnerabilities and promote climate resilience in various sectors.
6. Climate Finance: Seeking international climate finance to support mitigation and adaptation efforts, including funding for renewable energy projects and climate-resilient infrastructure.
7. Environmental Protection Measures: Implementation of policies and regulations to reduce environmental degradation, control deforestation, and protect natural resources.

EVALUATION: 1. What is Climatic change?

2. Identify 5 causes of Climatic change
3. Mention 5 consequences of climatic change
4. Mention 5 measures taken by the Nigerian Government to Minimize Climate Change Impacts

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively