With modifications others could benefit from this

This lesson was presented in a cap-stone physics/ engineering class to show how science and engineering knowledge can be applied to societal problems. However, this lesson, with appropriate ... See More

This lesson was presented in a cap-stone physics/ engineering class to show how science and engineering knowledge can be applied to societal problems. However, this lesson, with appropriate modifications, could easily be used in any environmental science class (either High School or undergraduate) or an honors high school class where social issues are debated. I think the idea of using it in a physics course was actually brilliant. So many times we forget that the science we are teaching DOES have far-reaching impacts and we need to tie our science knowledge to real-world issues and examples so that we can make the greatest difference. While the topic as presented may be above what a middle level science class might do, the example provided of ways to tie science to society might provide inspiration for a more doable lesson for that age group as well.