Air Pollution and Art: Data Literacy Through Place-Based Learning

This lesson provides context for the 6th grade physical science standards dealing with matter. It enables students to anchor their learning in real world issues. Students build on this knowledge in the following lesson, Air Pollution and Art, part 2. 

• Objective
  • SWBAT interpret air quality data
  • Students will research the 6 criteria pollutants to identify sources, health, and environmental effects
  • SWBAT create an art piece based on air pollution data
• Grades: 6 to 8, adaptable to high school
• Time: Two 70-minute class sessions including data collection
• Author: R Carpenter

Arizona Standards Engaged

6.P1U1.3: Develop and use models to represent that matter is made up of smaller particles called atoms.

1.a Ask questions that arise from careful observation of phenomena, models, or unexpected results. 

1.b Ask questions to clarify or identify evidence and the premise(s) of an argument. 

6.e Apply scientific knowledge and evidence to explain real-world phenomena, examples, or events.