Environmental Footprint web activity

In this standards-based activity, students learn how they personally impact their environment. The authors lead students to apply what they have learned about environmental chemistry to adap... See More

In this standards-based activity, students learn how they personally impact their environment. The authors lead students to apply what they have learned about environmental chemistry to adapt their behaviors in meaningful ways. In one college class I took, most of the class was appalled to discover that even the most environmentally considerate of us in the class consumed resources that would require on the order of three Earths if all human inhabitants of the Earth did the same. The average for the class was more like six times. By getting students to think about their own consumption, they can begin to understand how their usage patterns have become established, and how we make lifestyle decision based on short-term convenience. Students begin to develop critical thinking approaches in this activity, and integrate knowledge of social, cultural, and political realities. Several extensions are provided.

Ecological impact

This article describes a chemistry unit that allows students to use their knowledge on a personal and social level. By using an "ecological footprint" model, students are able to see how the... See More

This article describes a chemistry unit that allows students to use their knowledge on a personal and social level. By using an "ecological footprint" model, students are able to see how their habits impact the Earth. By understanding how those habits are tied to the science of the environment, as well as social, cultural, and political issues, students are encouraged to think critically and defend view points. I liked the concept of writing an article about sustainability using the students' experiences, and the bite-size organization of the unit, making it easier for students to organize and comprehend. It does a nice job of integration across the curriculum, and allowing students' creative juices to flow.