Pollution Resolution

1. Students used the internet to locate information and
expand their understanding of each alternative energy source.
2. Students compiled thier research into a 250 word
report that summarized the information they obtained.
3. Students worked in small groups to complete a list
of the benefits and disadvantages to each energy source and
to determine which source would be most practical for their
homes and school.
4. Student shared their lists and a master list was
created listing all the benefits and disadvantages of
each source. Students discussed their findings,
defining and defending their possitions as the class
worked together to determine the best energy source for their
area. Students summarized the information in a 150
word.
5. In this lesson, students will create an individual plan for reducing water
and air pollution. In preparation for the activity, each student should bring in one computer printout that discusses a water or air pollutant that results from individual or home use.

Scientists in different disciplines ask different questions, use different
methods of investigation, and accept different types of evidence to support
their explanations. Many scientific investigations require the contributions of
individuals from different disciplines, including engineering. New
disciplines of science, such as geophysics and biochemistry often emerge
at the interface of two older disciplines.
Science often advances with the introduction of new technologies. Solving
technological problems often results in new scientific knowledge. New
technologies often extend the current levels of scientific understanding and
introduce new areas of research.
Creativity, imagination, and a good knowledge base are all required in the
work of science and engineering.
Science and technology are pursued for different purposes. Scientific
inquiry is driven by the desire to understand the natural world, and
technological design is driven by the need to meet human needs and solve
human problems. Technology, by its nature, has a more direct effect on
society than science because its purpose is to solve human problems, help
humans adapt, and fulfill human aspirations. Technological solutions may
create new problems. Science, by its nature, answers questions that may
or may not directly influence humans. Sometimes scientific advances
challenge people's beliefs and practical explanations concerning various
aspects of the world.

Students should understand the interactions among the solid earth, the oceans, the atmosphere and life on earth.
Students should have the ability to access Internet independantly.
Students should also have some instruction on the basics of group work.

Students should be assigned to locate and bring to class one computer printout from the Internet that discusses a source of air or water pollution that comes from home and individual uses.
The class should discuss the source of water and air pollutants.

Students will be placed in teams to discuss and then orally present suggestions on how group members think that an individual can best change habits to assist with the resolution of water and air quality problems.

An informal assessment should be used to determine that all students are participating in the discussion. The oral segment should be divided so that each student has an opportunity to present part of the plan devised during the group discussion. After the oral presentation is complete, the instructor and the class should ask questions and discuss feasibility.
Each Group should be given about five minutes to complete the oral segment and share the information they brought to class.
Oral reports should contain the following components:
Scope of the problem
Why it is necessary for each individual to become involved in resolution of pollution problems.
At least 5 sources of polllutants from home use that contributes to water or air pollution.
Each group member should suggest at least one way they intend to reduce water or air pollution by changing habits at home.
Feasibility and ability to respond to audience queries.

Students could also discuss in class how the school community might work together to reduce water and air pollution. Nationally, there are many schools where students have become actively involved in recycling programs. At Omaha South High, for example, students work together with each classroom to recycle paper while special education students recycle aluminum cans and plastic bottles; the money is used to fund activities in that department. There are many ways that the schools can assist in the reduction of water and air pollution and students may be able to find their own project.

Students must have access to computers connected to the Internet.
If a write up is required, English teachers may be able to count it as a theme and correct writing areas allowing the science teacher to check for scientific accuracy.
There are many art pieces that depict or discuss water and landscapes containing shoreline.
Social Studies could look at the change in oppinion over time in the philosophy of waste disposal.
Biology has many connections, particularly as the industrial revolution occurred resulting in changes in populations.
Geography could look at the major areas where pollution is a problem. Additionally, pollution generated often strains international relations. States have been arguing over water rights because upstream users may be taking large amounts from rivers which reduces flows or dumping waste.