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Database Provider

Authors

Kim Preshoff, TED-Ed

Grades

3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Subjects

Science, Chemistry, Mathematics, Art

Resource Types

  • Video, 2 minutes, 27 seconds, CC, Subtitles
  • Assessment
  • Interactive Media
  • Article

Regional Focus

Global

How to Visualize One Part Per Million

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Synopsis
  • This video from TED-Ed shows nine ways students can visualize measurements in parts per million, considering it is not inherently simple to conceptualize. 
Teaching Tips

Positives

  • The video was created with the help of over 100 animators to create visualizations of one part per million.
  • The examples used are engaging, relatable, and varied which can make it more accessible to different styles of learning.
  • The video webpage includes eight "Think" questions, a "Dig Deeper" section with additional resources, and a "Discuss" section with a guided prompt for discussion.

Additional Prerequisites

  • Students should know what types of things we measure using parts per million, particularly greenhouse gas concentrations.
  • Students should understand that even though one part per million seems small, even low levels of toxic substances are dangerous.
  • You must sign into the website to use the interactive features.

Differentiation

  • Students can create their own analogies to visualize one part per million.
  • Students in math classes can convert units using parts per million.
  • Students can write an analysis of why they think it is difficult for humans to conceptualize parts per million and relate it to why humans have a hard time conceptualizing long periods of time (like the 4.6 billion years of Earth's history).
Scientist Notes
The video provides nine clear examples for students to understand ppm which is a common unit for measuring CO2 concentrations. There is no contradiction in the examples given. Thus, the resource is recommended for teaching.
Standards

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.

  • Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
    • PS1: Matter and its Interactions
      • 5-PS1-1 Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
  • Common Core Math Standards (CCSS.MATH)
    • Measurement & Data (K-5)
      • CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.MD.A.1 Convert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system (e.g., convert 5 cm to 0.05 m), and use these conversions in solving multi-step, real world problems.
  • National Core Arts Standards
    • Visual Arts: Standard 1 - Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
      • VA:Cr1.1.4a Brainstorm multiple approaches to a creative art or design problem.
  • Related Resources

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