Global Problems – Analytical Worksheet
High School Geography / Social Science
Global problems are large-scale challenges affecting multiple countries or the entire planet. They
are often interconnected and require international cooperation to solve. Examples include climate
change, biodiversity loss, global inequality, food insecurity, energy crises, environmental pollution,
and geopolitical conflicts. This worksheet focuses on critical thinking, analysis, and the use of data
and modern digital tools. Answer in full sentences and justify your arguments with evidence where
possible.
Part 1 – Conceptual Understanding
1 Define the term global problem. What characteristics must an issue have to be considered
global?
2 Explain why many global problems are interconnected. Provide at least two concrete examples.
3 What role do international organizations (e.g., UN, WHO, World Bank) play in solving global
problems?
4 Why is it difficult for governments to cooperate effectively on global issues? Consider political,
economic, and social factors.
Part 2 – Case Study: Climate Change
Climate change is widely considered one of the most serious global problems. The increase in
greenhouse gas concentrations leads to global warming, rising sea levels, extreme weather events,
and changes in ecosystems. These impacts affect food production, water availability, human health,
and global economies.
1
2
3
4
Identify the main anthropogenic (human-caused) sources of greenhouse gas emissions.
Explain how climate change can affect food security in different regions of the world.
Why are developing countries often more vulnerable to climate change impacts?
Propose two realistic mitigation strategies and two adaptation strategies.
Part 3 – Data Interpretation
Indicator
Region A
Region B
Region C
CO2 emissions per capita (t)
15.2
7.1
1.4
Average temperature increase (°C)
1.8
1.4
1.2
Population growth rate (%)
0.3
1.2
2.4
Agricultural vulnerability index
Low
Medium
High
1 Which region contributes most to global emissions relative to its population? Explain.
2 Which region is likely to experience the most severe consequences of climate change? Why?
3 What does this data suggest about global inequality in environmental responsibility and
vulnerability?
Part 4 – Critical Thinking Task
Choose ONE global problem from the following list: • Water scarcity • Biodiversity loss • Global
poverty • Energy transition • Plastic pollution Write a structured analysis (approx. 200–300 words)
addressing: 1. Causes of the problem 2. Regions most affected 3. Short-term consequences 4.
Long-term risks 5. Possible global solutions
Part 5 – AI-assisted Research
Use an AI tool (ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, etc.) to explore one global problem further. Use the
following prompts and evaluate the results critically.
•
•
•
Prompt 1: "Explain the main drivers of global biodiversity loss with recent scientific evidence."
Prompt 2: "Compare three possible solutions to reduce global plastic pollution."
Prompt 3: "Which regions will be most affected by water scarcity by 2050?"
1 Did the AI provide reliable sources?
2 Which information needed verification?
3 What biases or limitations did you notice in the AI response?
Teacher note: Encourage students to use statistical data, maps, and scientific sources when
answering.