Example of an 8-mark assessment for the statement "the causes of old climate change

and current global warming are different":

Introduction:
The statement "the causes of old climate change and current global warming are
different" raises questions about the factors that have influenced climate change
in the past versus the primary causes of the ongoing global warming trend.
Understanding these causes is crucial for addressing the challenges of climate
change.

Historical Climate Change Causes:

In the past, climate change was primarily driven by natural factors. Natural
variations in solar radiation, volcanic eruptions, and changes in Earth's orbit
played significant roles. For instance, changes in solar output and Earth's orbit
influenced the amount of solar energy received by the planet, leading to long-term
fluctuations in temperature and precipitation patterns. Additionally, volcanic
eruptions released large amounts of ash and gases, which affected the climate by
blocking sunlight and altering the composition of the atmosphere.

Current Global Warming Causes:

In contrast, the primary causes of current global warming are rooted in human
activities. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and
agriculture have significantly increased the concentrations of greenhouse gases in
the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) are
the key greenhouse gases responsible for trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading
to a rise in global temperatures. This enhanced greenhouse effect is the primary
driver of current global warming.

Interconnections and Overlapping Causes:

While there are differences in the causes of old climate change and current global
warming, it is important to note that some factors can overlap and interconnect.
Natural factors, such as solar activity, volcanic eruptions, and ocean currents,
can still impact the climate system today. However, their influence is relatively
smaller compared to human-induced factors. It is crucial to understand and
differentiate between natural and human-induced causes to accurately assess and
address the challenges of global warming.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the causes of old climate change and current global warming differ
in terms of their primary drivers. Past climate change was primarily influenced by
natural factors, whereas the ongoing global warming trend is primarily caused by
human activities, particularly the release of greenhouse gases. While some
interconnections and overlapping causes exist, it is essential to recognize the
dominant role of human-induced factors in shaping the current global climate.
Understanding these causes is key to formulating effective strategies to mitigate
and adapt to climate change.