Recently, you have become interested in joining your neighbors and have formed a “Concerned Panel of Citizens” that raises awareness of critical environmental issues that impact humans. This week, you are performing research around a particular toxin. Pretend that you are attending a “townhall-style” meeting, where you will present your findings, concerns, and recommendations to the audience. Use this webpage to begin your research: https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/air-topics (Links to an external site.)
What do I do?
First, select one of these toxins that you would like to learn more about:
- SULFATES (from Acid rain)
- NOx
- OZONE (ground-level)
- LEAD
- MERCURY (foodwebs)
- RADON
- VOC’s
- DDT
- PCB’s
- HCFC’s
- CFC’s (relate to stratospheric ozone)
- ORGANOPHOSPHATES (pesticides)
- BPA’s (plastics)
- Flame Retardants
- FORMALDEHYDE (carpeting, construction, furniture)
- LANOLIN (allergies)
Next, by using this EPA webpage (https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/air-topics) (Links to an external site.) (and other information you research), find out the following information:
- Where does the toxin come from? What is its exposure pathway?
- What specific health effects on humans is this toxin responsible for?
- What recommendations does your group have to minimize the use? How might you minimize negative health impacts?
What do I create?
Write a podcast script that is 3-minutes in length and is appropriate for a middle school student (for example, vocabulary, concepts, etc. can be understood by a 5th, 6th, or 7th grader).
Scripts
Your script is meant to be informational, educational, and you must demonstrate your learning. Creativity and professionalism are both expected!!!
LINKS
https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/air-topics