Debunking Cranky Uncle on the carbon cycle

John Cook

This video illustrates the Keeling curve as evidence to establish man's role in global climate change.

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Notes from our reviewers

The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials.

Teachers will need to provide educational structure to create a quality learning experience. Students should have some conceptual knowledge of climate change before viewing. Short and entertaining video--good for young audiences. It may be a good inter-topic transition tool on discussions of anthropogenic-driven climate change and science denialism, a discussion on the value of the scientific method and the peer-review process, used as a pause before a critical thinking exercise, or used as a tool when examining how climate change is depicted in the media and by climate deniers.
In this video, credit is given to Charles Keeling for collecting CO2 data. Background is provided on the connection between trees and seasonality of the Keeling Curve, and information about the large increase in CO2 emissions beginning with the industrial revolution. The video also describes the problem associated with "cherry picking" information. The cartoon tree "screams" when it absorbs CO2 in the spring, which can leave a negative impression when in fact the trees want and need CO2. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
The video provides visual and auditory learning. The video is whimsical and will capture the attention of students; it is also short enough to hold their attention and engaging enough to inspire them to have a deeper discussion on denialism and/or simply digging deeper on their own. Teachers will need to provide educational structure to engage learners in deeper learning experiences. Cartoon scientist is portrayed as a woman.