U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) coordinates climate change activities of 13 federal departments & agencies
Source: ÒClimate Literacy: The Essential Principles of Climate ScienceÓ
http://www.globalchange.gov/resources/educators/climate-literacy
7 principles:

1) Sun is primary source of energy for EarthÕs climate system

2) Climate is regulated by complex interactions among components of the Earth system.

3) Life on Earth depends on, is shaped by, and affects climate.

4) Climate varies over space and time through both natural and human-made processes.

5) Observations, theoretical studies and modeling improve our understanding of the climate system.

6) Human activities are affecting the climate system.

7) Climate change will have consequences for Earth system and human lives.