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Data Starter: Global temperature change relative to the pre-industrial period, 1850-2025

Elizabeth Veal

5th May 2026

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What has been happening to the pace of change in global temperatures?

Using the OurWorldinData chart, do these data questions:

  1. Identify two significant features of the trend in global temperatures since 1850.
  2. Compare the global average temperature (relative to base line) for (a) 2025 & 1975 and (b) 1975 & 1870.

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Elizabeth Veal

Liz has taught Economics for over 25 years, including several years as Head of Economics at leading schools.