Adapted from Take the Test: sample questions from OECD’s PISA assessments, 2009

‘The burning of coal, oil and natural gas as well as deforestation and various agricultural and industrial practices, are altering the composition of the atmosphere and contributing to climate change. These human activities have led to increased concentrations of particles and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere’. Which human activities contribute to climate change? Source: US Global Change Research office

What are the key points of this statement? How do you know? How did you locate this information? Who has issued this statement? How do you know? Is this fact or opinion? How do you know? Analysing the statement

What can I infer? What do I know? What can I see?

What does the graphic show? To what extent does the graphic support the statements made in the text? Annotate the graphic to show how it reflects or challenges the statement made. Why do you think the authors have used the graphic? Linking the information

Graphic for source square

Use the information from your interrogation of the source square, the original statement made on slide 2 and your own knowledge to develop a balanced argument to answer the above question. You will need to come to a firm conclusion. You will have one minute to present your argument to the class as a speech. You must be prepared to justify your decisions and any statements made. Should the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions be supported?

Evaluation How certain are you about the conclusion you have drawn? How do you know? What evidence are you using to support your argument? What further evidence would you require to:  support your decision  reverse your decision? Where might you find this information? How can you be sure it is unbiased? What will you look for?