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NGSS Earth Science Simulations
These simulations let students use computational models to investigate earth systems and understand how changes in one system affect others. Each model shows quantitative relationships between variables and supports the predict-explore-explain-assess cycle built into classroom activities.
Every simulation includes live results tracking for teachers and automatic grading of multiple-choice assessment questions. Students join by code with no login required.
1.Live Simulations
The Greenhouse Effect simulation models how variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide and other gases change Earth's energy balance and temperature. Students explore the relationship between greenhouse gas concentrations and planetary warming, and investigate feedback loops that amplify or reduce temperature changes. This model addresses standards HS-ESS2-4 and MS-ESS3-5.
The Carbon Cycle simulation shows how carbon moves among the atmosphere, living organisms, soil, and water. Students track carbon through photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and ocean processes to develop a quantitative model of cycling. The model covers standards HS-ESS2-6, HS-ESS3-6, and MS-LS2-3.
Ice and Albedo: Earth's Energy Balance models how ice and snow change the fraction of sunlight Earth reflects to space, creating a powerful feedback on temperature. Students explore how changes in ice coverage affect planetary energy balance and investigate why polar regions are warming faster than the tropics. This simulation addresses standards HS-ESS2-2, HS-ESS2-4, and MS-ESS3-5.
2.Coming Soon
Moon Phases and Seasons will let students model lunar phases and seasonal patterns using an Earth-sun-moon system, addressing standard MS-ESS1-1.
Plate Tectonics will show how continental and seafloor patterns provide evidence of past plate motion, supporting standard MS-ESS2-3.
Standards
Try the simulations
The Greenhouse Effect
The Carbon Cycle
Ice & Albedo: Earth's Energy Balance
Moon Phases: Light and Orbit
Plate Tectonics: The Moving Map
More resources
- Try The Greenhouse Effect
- Try The Carbon Cycle
- Try Ice and Albedo
- View All Simulations
- Sign In for Teachers
- HS-ESS2-2: Earth Materials and Systems
- HS-ESS2-4: Weather and Climate
- HS-ESS2-6: Earth's Systems
- HS-ESS3-6: Earth and Human Activity
- MS-ESS1-1: Earth's Place in the Universe
- MS-ESS2-3: Earth's Systems
- MS-ESS3-5: Global Climate Change
- MS-LS2-3: Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
Use this resource to teach with live results