Slowing Down an Amplifying Greenhouse Effect Lab
Articles/Websites
Grades9, 10, 11, 12Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Earth and Space Sciences
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Provided by TERC
What it is
- In this two-part lab, students will learn about the pros and cons of technologies designed to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
- Topics covered in this lab include using algae as fuel for vehicles and various types of carbon capture or carbon sequestration technologies.
Teaching tips
Positives:
- The infographics are colorful and detailed.
- There are a number of optional extensions provided to extend the lab.
Additional Prerequisites:
- Access to the Internet is required for this activity.
- Teachers must sign in to access the key.
Differentiation:
- Consider assigning some of the videos as homework and then have students work in pairs or groups to discuss the questions.
- This lab can be used by Engineering classes as an example of technological solutions that can help with a global problem. Consider having students research the carbon-infused cement or algae-based fuels.
- Science students can research the risks associated with pumping CO2 into the soil to see if they are similar to the risks of fracking, such as more earthquakes or groundwater contamination.
- Have students design an energy-neutral and ecosystem-friendly means of growing/harvesting algae to use for an alternative fuel.
- Students can compare the solutions presented to their ranking of solutions on the interactive Project Drawdown table of solutions.
From the scientist review
The resource is recommended to improve students' research writing skills and presentation of key findings on carbon reduction and removal technology.
How we review resourcesReady to use it?
Hosted on serc.carleton.edu
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