During this module, students take a virtual mobile lab drive with scientists to investigate and learn about atmospheric carbon gases, their sources, and impacts on air quality.
Context for Use
The four DISCOVER-AQ modules can be completed independently, sequentially, or extended into a larger unit of study.
Image by Chuck Quigley from Pixabay
Goals Header
What Students Will Do
- Identify natural and anthropogenic sources of carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4) emissions.
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Connect observed levels of carbon gases from the NOAA Mobile Laboratory drives to some of these sources.
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Describe the potential impacts of carbon gases on air quality (including human health and the environment).
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Design solutions for reducing anthropogenic carbon gas emissions.
Teaching Materials
Description
The “Know Your AQ” curriculum applies the 5E Instructional Model:
- Engage (15 minutes) - Scientist Interview & Mobile Lab Introduction
Interest in air quality is generated and students’ current understanding of air pollution is assessed
- Explore (35 minutes) - Researching Carbon Gases
Students conduct basic research to explore carbon gases related to air quality.
- Explain (15 minutes) - Carbon Gas Predictions
Students construct their understanding of carbon gas sources and develop evidence-based explanations using carbon gas data.
- Elaborate (20 minutes) - Carbon Gas Data Analysis
Students deepen and expand their understanding of the relationship between carbon gases and air quality by applying their understanding in terms of atmospheric monitoring.
- Evaluate (15 minutes) - Carbon Gases & Me Think-Pair-Share
Students and teachers have opportunities to assess students’ understanding of carbon gas sources and their relationship to air quality.
