Key question
How polluted is the air?
Outline
In this experiment children find out how polluted the air is.
Preparation
Collect resources below.
Learning outcomes
On completing these activities all children will:
- know about pollution in the air;
- be able to compare levels of pollution in different places; and
- know about the sources of pollution.
Resources
- White saucers or jam jar lids
- Petroleum jelly, e.g. Vaseline
- Labels
- Sticky tape
- Magnifier
- Investigation 12 worksheet ‘How polluted is the air?’
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Learning activities
1. The children make an air monitor by putting petroleum jelly on a saucer or jam jar lid. They label each with their names and the places where they will put them. The children keep one to put in the classroom - to compare with outdoor ones. Pollution in the air will stick to the petroleum jelly.
2. The children put two air monitors outside, affixing them to something so that they don’t blow away or get filled with rain. The monitors are then left in place for a week. The children collect their air monitors and look at them closely. Using a magnifier, they record what they see on the sheet.
NOTE : The children should not touch the petroleum jelly on the monitors and should wash their hands after the activity is complete.
3. The children and teachers talk about the investigation.
Note: Check www.enfo.ie or www.epa.ie for information on air quality.