Overview
In 2021, COP26 was hosted in Glasgow. It was seen as a pivotal moment in tackling the global climate crisis. Help your students understand the impact the COP26 had and the key issues at play through our classroom resource.
Aimed at students in KS4 and 5 or S3-S6, this resource is designed to be run over a 1-2 hour period. Students are introduced to key pieces of environmental legislation and critically analyse what impact this legislation is having on tackling climate change now and in the future.
By the end of the lesson(s) students will be able to:
- Analyse who is responsible for tackling climate change and who is responsible for addressing its effects;
- Explain the key outcomes of a range of climate change related legislation and examine how these are being used to drive change;
- Critically consider the role of the law in real life cases and explain how people are using the law to challenge decisions and instigate change.
Acknowledgments:
This classroom resource was developed in partnership with and funded by the international law firm CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP.
We would like to thank the staff and pupils at Balerno High School, Eastbank Academy, Maria Fidelis Catholic School and Mulberry School for Girls for their input during the piloting of this resource pack.
More Lessons resources
Tackling Discrimination (SmartLaw Subscription)
This lesson asks students to explore whether or not we have a moral or legal obligation to tackle discrimination when we see it. It can be delivered as a stand-alone…
All at Sea: a story about fairness and the rule of law
During this lesson pupils use the story ‘All at Sea’ to explore how a group of citizens should organise a new society under a challenging set of circumstances. Each chapter…
Brexit: Part 1 – Referendum
Pupils will be given a brief introduction to the European Union. They will learn about why people’s opinions about the EU are divided and the results of the EU referendum.…
More Community resources
Identities
In this lesson pupils will develop an understanding of what is meant by the term ‘identity.’ They will explore their own sense of identity and share this with others, appreciating…
Crime and its Impact (SmartLaw Subscription)
Students explore the impact of crime on those surrounding the victim and the perpetrator and consider the financial, physical and emotional ripples that crime can have on a community. Please…
Biodiversity: Using the Law to Drive Change
During this lesson, students consider what biodiversity is, why it is essential to all life on Earth and what...
More Politics and Democracy resources
Being An Online Citizen
During this lesson pupils consider their rights and responsibilities as digital citizens, focusing on how the online world can be used as a force for good. Pupils consider what skills,…
The G7 (Assembly Pack)
During this assembly pupils explore the history and function of the G7 and are introduced to the sort of discussions held at the annual G7 Summit. They learn about the…
Plastic Pollution (KS2)
Find out more about the impact of plastic on our oceans. Watch this introductory video and use our free...
More Social Action/Active Citizenship resources
Making a Difference (certificate)
Our pupil certificates are linked to 12 ethos statements, such as We Make a Difference in our Communities. Each statement supports character development and the acquisition of key citizenship skills The…
Protecting Local Habitats (KS2)
In this lesson pupils will learn about the importance of habitats and explore endangered British species and the threats to their habitat. Pupils will be guided through ways in which…
More Sustainability and the Environment resources
Climate Action: Using the Law to Drive Change
In 2021, COP26 was hosted in Glasgow. It was seen as a pivotal moment in tackling the global climate...
World Female Ranger Day (KS1 Assembly)
During this assembly pupils will learn about World Female Ranger Day. Pupils will explore where the continent of Africa is and learn about its unique wildlife, and why it needs…
Pollution: Expedition to Planet Blueball
This lesson explores the issues of pollution of our planet and sustainable power. It is based around an animated story, involving the Go-Givers characters, in which creatures from a friendly…
More Understanding Rules & The Law resources
Who’s to Blame? (SmartLaw Subscription)
This activity is based on the case of R v. Dudley and Stephens (1884) – two sailors accused of murdering cabin boy Richard Parker, after being cast adrift on the…
All at Sea: a story about fairness and the rule of law
During this lesson pupils use the story ‘All at Sea’ to explore how a group of citizens should organise...
Biodiversity: Using the Law to Drive Change
During this lesson, students consider what biodiversity is, why it is essential to all life on Earth and what...
More KS4 (ages 14-16) resources
Learning About the Law (SmartLaw Subscription)
This lesson gives students an introduction to the legal system in the UK. During the lesson students will examine the roles of the various professionals involved in the law and…
The Government and the Economy
By the end of the lesson students will: Understand key economic terms including taxation, welfare benefits, public spending and...
The Big Legal Lesson 2026 (ages 11-18+)
Join the UK's biggest legal education campaign during February 2025.
More KS5 (ages 16-18) resources
Climate Action: Circular Economies
During this lesson students explore how the economy can be used to support climate action and create a more...
Bar Mock Trial Competition – Support Videos
Preparing for the Bar Mock Trial Competition? Watch these video explainers, demonstrations and expert tips on key aspects of criminal trials. To access this content, register for our Bar Mock…
Consumer Law (SmartLaw Subscription)
This lesson explores the law concerning buying and selling goods and services highlighting what their rights and responsibilities are as a consumer. The lesson gives students the opportunity to practice…