Have a nice summer.

I like the metaphor of the car spitting out exhaust fumes…it does show pollution, but very literally. Remember, a metaphor is when something stands in for something else. So what larger idea could your car’s exhaust image be standing in for?

I also would love to show Alaska’s melting ice caps; alas, unless we take a class cruise, I don’t think we’re going to get the chance to see those up close.

2. I’m sure I’m not doing as much as I could, but I recycle paper, plastic, glass, aluminum (foil & cans). I also walk to the store, library, and sporting events if the weather and my schedule allow it. I’ve thought about changing my place of employment so that I could be closer to work and not drive as much.

3. Global warming is a global issue. While the Western, industrialized nations probably bear the brunt of the responsibility (the U.S.), many of the emerging industrial countries now share the blame (perhaps even more) and the responsibility (China, Mexico etc.). And individuals need to do as much as they can to reduce the waste produced and conserve energy. Of course, big business and the government need to police themselves, providing incentives for individuals and businesses that promote a healthy environment while imposing consequences for those who destoy the environment or flaunt recycle, reduce, and reuse policies.

I also agree that finding out what happens if we don’t reverse the effects is important, too. This would also be a powerful message to tell our audience: if you don’t do something, something awful will happen!

I’m glad you’re doing some research. What articles or shows have you read/watched? What are the long term effects that you’ve identified? Have you found anything about the measures we can take to stop or even reverse global warming?

Also, have you read anything about global warming that indicates that humans are not to blame, that this is a natural occurrence? Be sure to look at both sides of the issue and address these in your final project.

Mrs. Fallahi

I look forward to reading your responses to information you find about your topic. Global warming is a major topic of concern for the world right now. I hope that the United States will be a leader in searching for ideas and solutions to a potentially life-threatening problem in the years to come. Since we look to our national leaders, in particular candidates for president, for solutions, we should become informed about their position on this topic. Perhaps you could research Senators Clinton, Obama, and McCain’s positions.

Good luck, and I hope to read more from you soon.
Mrs. Fallahi

Your confusion is natural–you haven’t begun your research yet–that’s why we’re having time in class to find out information about our topic before we start our film.

Don’t forget to post your summary/responses to the articles and NPR stories.