Lesson Plan

• Describe the purpose and main types of models used in financial forecasting and climate‑change analysis.
• Apply the five‑step mathematical modelling process to formulate and solve equations for revenue growth and energy‑balance scenarios.
• Evaluate model assumptions, validate results with data, and present findings clearly using tables and graphs.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Laptop with spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel)
• Printed worksheets containing financial data tables and RCP scenario handouts
• Scientific calculator

Begin with a short video clip showing how modelling predicts stock market trends and future climate impacts, sparking curiosity about real‑world relevance. Review students’ prior knowledge of algebraic equations and basic graphs. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to construct, solve, and critique models for both financial and environmental contexts.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on model types and key terminology.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Overview of the five‑step modelling process and its application to finance and climate.
3. Guided practice (15'): Use a spreadsheet to calculate revenue after 5 years with the linear growth formula.
4. Group activity (15'): Compute discounted cash flow for a given cash‑flow scenario and discuss risk implications.
5. Climate modelling demonstration (10'): Walk through the energy‑balance equation and explore RCP tables.
6. Critical discussion (10'): Evaluate assumptions and limitations of the financial and climate models.
7. Check for understanding (5'): Exit‑ticket questions – one financial, one climate‑modeling.

Summarise how the modelling process links data, equations, and decision‑making in both domains. Students complete an exit ticket summarising one insight and one question they still have. Assign homework: finish the worksheet by extending the revenue model to include variable costs and draft a brief paragraph on how changing an RCP scenario would affect policy recommendations.