Elementary students, as scientists, use a model to test cause-and-effect relationships between human tire use and its impact on the environment. Students consider and communicate solutions that will reduce human impact on the environment. Students are introduced to a phenomenon by observing photos of inappropriate trash disposal. Students generate noticings and wonderings and begin to consider how they will investigate their questions. Students observe a lake and pollution model to investigate the cause-and- effect relationship between human decisions and pollution. Students then listen to a book and watch several videos outlining how people and NASCAR are trying to reduce the effects they have on the environment. Finally, students return to the original phenomenon and share new ideas they have figured out. Students return to the cause-and-effect graphic organizer to add to their explanation of the effects of human actions on the environment.

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Student Materials

Per Student

• How Humans Impact the Environment Graphic Organizer

Teacher Materials

• Two-column “T” chart labeled “Notice/Wonder”
• Phenomenon pictures
  • Link to polluted beach #1
  • Link to polluted beach #2
  • Link to landfill picture
  • Link to tire dump picture

Optional Teacher Resources

• Chart paper
• Computer, projector, whiteboard, or chalkboard