Analyzing Greenhouse Gases Over Time

Objectives
• To organize raw data by using charts and graphs
• To analyze the charts and graphs to see trends in the data, and extend the trends into the future
• To examine the data critically and draw valid conclusions which can be justified

Engage
You have been assigned a position in a research institution dealing with global issues. A research
scientist has just published "raw data." Within a week a major international conference on this
material will be held and you need to analyze the data. The data need to be presented and organized in
a meaningful and useful way.

Explore/Explain
Materials: (for each team of students)
• raw data (see below)
• pencil
• graph paper
• ruler

Procedure:
1. Discuss where data come from, types of graphs available, what a trend is, and how to project a
trend. (Class discussion)
2. Work in small teams to analyse the different data sets. Although you will be responsible for
plotting just one of the graphs, the whole activity is a collaborative, group activity.
3. Simulate the role of a research scientist - an 'expert'.
4. Using the data below, plot an appropriate selection (ie every 10 or 20 years) of the values and
make the curve for each of the graphs. When selecting the scales for each axis, remember to
leave space on the graph for plotting a future trend of 50 years. (Individual work)
5. Upon completion of the graph(s), continue the trend of the curve for another 50 years.
(Individual work)
6. Analyse and develop a conclusion for each graph. Write this on a separate piece of paper which
can be attached under the graph. (Team work)
7. Collect all the graphs and analyses together into one display. (Team work)
8. Elect spokespeople to report the interpretation of each graph, including:
a) consensus view
b) a minority view
9. Discuss the role of data analysis in scientific research. How do choices in displaying data affect
communication? (Class discussion)

Expand
1. Make a display of the various graphs and conclusions.
2. Compare the data of a selection of countries, including Ecuador.