This lesson introduces students to the concept of aerosols and their environmental impacts through an art-based phenomenon, real-world scientific research, and hands-on investigations. Students begin by analyzing Santiago Sierra’s art installation which serves as a visual and engaging phenomenon to discuss air pollution and its effects. They explore the scientific properties of aerosols, learn about light-scattering techniques used by scientists like Dr. Jian Wang, and conduct investigations to examine how aerosols and shading affect light transmission and temperature changes. Finally, students will connect their observations to broader implications of aerosols on climate and air quality.
Grade Levels: 6-12
Standard:
NGSS: MS-PS3-4 MS-PS4-2 MS-ESS3-3
HS-PS4-3 HS-ESS3-5
Topics: Climatology, Atmospheric Science, Physics, Environmental Science, Earth Science
Contributor: Joe Bartin, Kirkwood High School
Acknowledgements: The contents of this curriculum were co-developed with Dr. Jian Wang at McKelvey School of Engineering at WashU and funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation (New Particle Formation in the Marine Boundary Layer: The Frequency, Mechanism, and Impact on Cloud Condensation Nuclei, AGS-2147747). These contents do not necessarily represent the policies of the National Science Foundation, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government.