They find out where their community's trash goes. They test whether several substances are acids or bases to determine which ones are safe to place in a landfill. Students simulate how a landfill can pollute groundwater, and they listen to a speaker or visit a solid waste disposal site and recycling center. Students observe a demonstration on garbage incineration. They become aware of the hazards to wildlife that litter can cause.
Students conduct an antilitter campaign on the school grounds.
Students look at maps to identify areas used by the motor vehicle transportation system and brainstorm the means by which people transport themselves and their products to schools. Groups gather data on transportation trends that they observe occurring near their school. They observe a demonstration on gathering air pollutants and design their own air pollution detectors. Students participate in a simulation activity to understand the environmental benefits of car pooling. Students investigate properties of oil mixed in water and listen to a story about an oil spill.