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.
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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
Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCSS.ELA)
Speaking & Listening (K-12)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.2 Interpret information presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and explain how it contributes to a topic, text, or issue under study.
Common Core Math Standards (CCSS.MATH)
Ratios & Proportional Relationships (6-7)
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.RP.A.2 Recognize and represent proportional relationships between quantities.
