The Greenhouse Effect Lab – Earth’s Atmosphere Worksheets & Activity

Looking for a hands-on way to show students how greenhouse gases affect Earth’s temperature? The Greenhouse Effect Lab lets students model the greenhouse effect using simple household materials—bottles, thermometers, and CO₂ generated from baking soda and vinegar—to observe how extra carbon dioxide traps heat.

Perfect for middle and high school earth science or environmental science, this NGSS-aligned lab helps students connect abstract climate science concepts to real-world implications. Students record temperature changes over time, graph their data, and apply evidence-based reasoning through a structured CER (Claim-Evidence-Reasoning) section.

Why Teachers Love This Lab:

• Hands-on, visual, and low-prep
• Models the greenhouse effect and CO₂ heat-trapping in real time
• Includes graphing, data analysis, and CER prompts
• Encourages predictions, observation, and higher-order thinking
• Perfect for climate change, Earth systems, or environmental science units

What’s Included:

• Printable student lab handout with background and directions
• Step-by-step CO₂ generation and mini-greenhouse setup
• Data table and graphing section for recording temperature trends
• CER prompts with guiding questions
• Teacher guide with answers, tips, differentiation strategies, and extensions
• Safety instructions and household-friendly materials list

What Students Will Learn:

• How CO₂ and greenhouse gases trap heat
• Temperature changes over time in a controlled vs. CO₂-filled environment
• Data collection, graphing, and scientific reasoning skills
• Real-world climate connections and implications

Easy Setup, Big Impact:
No complex equipment—just bottles, thermometers, baking soda, vinegar, and a lamp. Students watch the greenhouse effect in action and connect it to climate change in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Grade Levels: 7th – 12th
Total Pages: 13
Teaching Duration: 60 Minutes

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