Fifth graders from Rushmore Avenue School recently participated in a hands-on lesson about water pollution during their science rotation with Julie Tusa. The classes first spoke about the various forms of water pollution, from oil spills to plastic waste. In small groups of four to five students, they then experimented together to determine if water pollution could be reversed.
Mrs. Tusa provided each group with a bucket which she filled with water and different ingredients to pollute it. This included vegetable oil to represent an oil spill, food coloring to represent a chemical spill, string to represent fish nets and more. Each team of students received a budget of $500 which they could use to “purchase” materials to remove the pollution and make their water clean enough for humans to use. Materials for purchase included filters, gloves, magnets, plastic cups, a strainer, tongs and more.
The activity encouraged students to work together to brainstorm the most effective way to remove the pollution which they quickly learned can be a difficult task. The lesson was a great way to shine a light on the importance of protecting our waterways and environment.
Date Added: 3/13/2023