Weather Girl Goes Rogue

Deep Rogue Ram, Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies

This humorous video suggests what might happen if a weather forecaster reported the weather in the context of climate change. There is a sharp contrast between the anchor focusing on short-term local concerns and the weather forecaster describing what is happening on a long-term global basis.

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Notes from our reviewers

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Educators could ask students to discuss the differing perspectives of the anchor and weather forecaster, and the scientific evidence for the long-term global view. Video could be used to add a bit of levity at some point near the end of a climate change unit. It summarizes some key points about climate change.
Links to data sources are not provided, but the scientific statements are consistent with the consensus view. The video was produced in 20102 and some of the details (sea ice extent, current average temperature) have changed since then. But the message remains valid. Comments from expert scientist: Represents some basic stats of recent climate change in a humorous way. Not a primary piece of educational curriculum, but would be a funny break between lessons.
No background material or teacher's guide is provided. Since it takes a satirical view of the subject, it would be best used after a more serious examination of the issues with students who will understand the satire. Offers a way for students to consider the effectiveness of climate communication. Is this message effective? Why or why not? Students could create their own video segments using other communications strategies. May be more suitable for more mature students, high school and up.