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Greenhouse Effect Simulation
The Greenhouse Effect simulation is a free, browser-based model that shows how greenhouse gases trap heat in Earth's atmosphere. Students join with a code and no login is required. The simulation includes classroom assignments that guide students through predict-explore-explain-assess cycles with auto-graded multiple choice questions.
1.Grade bands: Middle School and High School
The simulation serves students in grades 6-12. Middle School students explore the basic mechanism: how gases trap heat. High School students extend their inquiry to analyze climate variations and use the model to explain real-world data about Earth's energy systems.
2.Standards: HS-ESS2-4 and MS-ESS3-5
The simulation supports two NGSS standards.
HS-ESS2-4 (Weather and Climate): Use a model to describe how variations in the flow of energy into and out of Earth's systems result in changes in climate.
MS-ESS3-5 (Global Climate Change): Ask questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century.
3.How to assign it
Start a new class session in the teacher dashboard. The system generates a unique join code. Students enter the code on the join screen with no login required. The simulation appears immediately, and students can begin the assignments right away. Teachers see a live results view that updates as students submit answers. All responses are saved automatically, and the teacher can review student work anytime.
Questions teachers ask
Do students need to create accounts to use the simulation?
No. Students join a class session using a code with no login, password, or account creation needed. Teachers create the session and manage it from the teacher dashboard.
Does the simulation work on Chromebooks and tablets?
Yes. The simulation runs in any modern web browser on Chromebooks, iPads, laptops, and desktop computers. It requires no software installation.
Is it really free?
Yes. Teachers sign up at no cost and run as many class sessions as they want. There are no hidden fees, no ads, and no data selling.
What do teachers see?
Teachers see a live results view showing which students have joined the session, their progress through each assignment, and their answers to auto-graded questions.
Standards
Try the simulations
The Greenhouse Effect
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