PPM: The Impact of Trace Elements in the Environment

Alexandra Moore, Paleontological Research Institution

This resource from the Paleontological Research Institute includes a worksheet, videos, and hands on experiments to demonstrate how absorption, reflection, and transmission of light relates to the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and how small changes in that amount (e.g., parts per million or ppm) can have large impacts.

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Notes from our reviewers

The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials.

Consider using the virtual dataset if it is not feasible to obtain the listed materials. The authors provide all the information needed to support anyone who would like to implement this activity. This activity can be performed as a demonstration if a class set of materials is not available. The authors also provide extensive content that should support the user in deciding how to integrate this activity into their curriculums. The variety of learning tools will likely appeal to a wide range of learning styles. A teacher and student guide are included.
Students will take data on the amount of light transmitted through a bottle as food dye is added dropwise. Students will then analyze and interpret data from this experiment. This mathematical relationship of ppm to absorption is then applied to climate change, and how increasing the concentration of CO2 in our atmosphere can increase the amount of heat we feel by way of molecules that absorb infrared (IR) wavelengths. A second experiment to measure IR wavelength transmission through a container with increasing concentrations of CO2 is mentioned, although there is no lesson plan for this activity. This resource does an excellent job of introducing key concepts about climate science in a measurable way, and dispelling climate change myths. The focus of this activity is on the impacts of small quantities of a substance in our environment, such as the small quantity of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. The model within the activity very closely approximates the actual concentrations, especially when the quantitative version of the activity is used. The rigor in the quantitative version of the activity is supported by the background information, and the extensive number of figures and videos. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
This resource uses text, videos, worksheets, and an experiment in which students collect real data to teach concepts related to ppm, light absorption, and reflection, and how greenhouse gases trap IR wavelengths. The objectives for this activity are provided and are directly connected to what students are doing in the activity. This is a hands-on lab-based activity, although the authors provide a work-around if the materials are not available to perform this activity quantitatively. There is plenty of support for those new to teaching the topic, and those seeking alternative methods for teaching the topic. The Instructor Handout and Student Handout are extensive and carefully sequenced to ensure the success of implementation. The activity does not include assessment items, however, students can be formatively assessed through their responses to the guiding questions within the activity.
The first activity is complete in scope and ready to use. A second topic is introduced with an accompanying activity, although the complete teacher/student guide for this is listed as "Coming Soon" and is currently incomplete. The content of this activity is in reach of students if teachers are careful to guide them through the quantitative approaches in the activity. It is highly suggested that the activity be tested prior to implementation. The authors are clear about what supplies are needed, and where applicable, they provide alternatives.