Pollution Solution

Topic: In this team-based, hands-on activity, students will learn how pollution affects the environment and will brainstorm solutions to pollution in the world around them.

Time: 60 minutes; implemented in one session

Materials:

• Computer with projector

• PowerPoint: Pollution Solution

• Pre-Activity Checklist

• Tell My Story Form

• Colored markers (1 pack per team)

• Food coloring (red, yellow, green)

• Flip chart or poster-sized paper (1 piece per team)

• Hand wipes or paper towels (for clean-up)

• Pen/pencil (1 per student)

• Tablecloths (number will depend on tables being used)

• Tape or Blue-Stik™ (for hanging the team-created posters on the wall)

• Pollution Solution materials (1 set of the following items for the activity leader for demonstration, as well as 1 set per team):

  • 1 large, clear, plastic tub (12–quart/11–liter, minimum)

  • 4 plastic, 16-ounce cups (475 mL), each filled with one of

    the following liquids:

    • 8–12 oz. (250–350 mL) of water with green food

      coloring added

    • 8–12 oz. (250–350 mL) of water with red food coloring

      added

    • 8–12 oz. (250–350 mL) of water with yellow food

      coloring added

  • 3 Tbs. (44 mL) cooking oil

  • 3 straws (any size)

  • 2 plastic bottle caps

  • 1 aluminum soda can

Cost: US$20 (excluding optional items) in material costs when completing this activity with 20 students organized into teams of three or four students.