Apply scientific methods and principles to assess a real-world, local problem

Scientific Methods and Principles 1

Applying Scientific Methods and Principles to Assess Ozone Pollution

In an article for the Salt Lake Tribune , Fahys (2004 , calls attention to the growing problem of ozone pollution in Utah , caused by Volatile Organic Compounds , automobile gas emissions that are being spewed into the air , oil-based paints and charcoal grills . The problem is particularly acute during the summer heat wave because these compounds and emissions quickly vaporize into the air . The recommendation is to limit activities that would create this pollution , to the morning and evening

periods when the air is cooler . A fifth-grade instructional project for applying scientific methods and principles to assess this problem , is the subject of this . There are nine elements in this project plan , and each will be discussed in turn

Instructional Goals and Problem Solving Skills to be addressed

Students will learn and define the term pollution , in general terms , and in particular , the pollution of the ozone . Pollution will be defined to them as the release into the air , of harmful substances through human activity that may adversely affect humans , plants and animals (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory , n .d

Students will also learn that Volatile Organic Compounds are gases which are emitted from certain liquids and solids (Environmental Protection Agency , 1994 , some of which are in their homes and can prove to be harmful to health . They will be required to name the common VOC 's found in their homes

Students will understand the effects of pollution...