What's Air Got to Do with It?

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Students are introduced to the concepts of air pollution and air quality. The three lesson parts focus on the prerequisites for understanding air pollution. First, students use M&Ms to create a pie graph that expresses their understanding of the composition of air. Next, students watch and conduct several simple experiments to develop an understanding of the properties of air (it has mass, it takes up space, it can move, it exerts pressure, it can do work). Finally, students develop awareness and understanding of the daily air quality using the Air Quality Index (AQI) listed in the newspaper. In an associated literacy activity, students explore the environmental history timeline.

Material Type: Activity/Lab, Lesson Plan

Authors: Amy Kolenbrander, Denise W. Carlson, Janet Yowell, Malinda Schaefer Zarske, Natalie Mach

AirData: Access to Air Pollution Data

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The AirData Web site gives you access to air pollution data for the entire United States. Want to know the highest ozone level measured in your state last year? Ever wonder where air pollution monitoring sites are located? Are there sources of air pollution in your town? You can find out here! AirData produces reports and maps of air pollution data based on criteria that you specify.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Pollution Solutions

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To develop an understanding of modern industrial technologies that clean up and prevent air pollution, students build and observe a variety of simple models of engineering pollutant recovery methods: scrubber, electrostatic precipitator, cyclone and baghouse. In an associated literacy activity, students become more aware of global environmental problems and play a part in their solution by writing environmental action campaign letters.

Material Type: Activity/Lab, Lesson Plan

Authors: Amy Kolenbrander, Benjamin S. Terry, Denise W. Carlson, Janet Yowell, Malinda Schaefer Zarske, Natalie Mach

Mapping the Mangroves - MWL

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The Mangrove Mapping Curricula strives to provide opportunities for students to learn about and explore mangroves and their ecosystems. Through this process it is hoped that students develop and understanding and appreciation for mangroves and the role they play in a healthy environment. Mangroves are group of tropical/subtropical trees that live in salt or sweet (salt/fresh water combination) water coastal environments. They are considered a cornerstone species and play important roles in habitat formation and stabilization of coastal environments.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Authors: Chris Dubia, Joel Long