Give students a proactive opportunity to learn about oil spills with an activity exploring the science of environmental preservation.
GUIDING QUESTIONS
• Why are oil spills dangerous to the natural environment?
• How are oil spills effectively cleaned up?
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Students will be able to:
• explain how oil spills affect the natural environment.
• share ways to reduce the use of oils that are harmful to the environment.
• sort or categorize scenarios as prevention or cleanup methods.
• use models that test the effectiveness of cleanup methods.
OVERVIEW
On day one, students are introduced to the negative effects of oil spills on land, water, and
living things. In groups, students identify and discuss ways to prevent or minimize the negative impact of oil on the natural environment. In preparation for the next session, they explore different ways to remove oil from water.
On day two, students conduct an investigation to determine the most effective way skimming or soaking) to remove oil from water. Students use evidence to show which removal process is the most effective.
Grades K – 2
