Activity 7.1 - Solutions to Pollution
Introduction
In this activity students are asked to plan an hypothetical innovative method to prevent stormwater pollution in their local waterway. They will need to choose between source control or an end-of-pipe solution.
Estimated lesson time: Introduction: 40 minutes. This activity is suitable for homework or a class research assignment.
HSIE Stage 2 OutcomesThis activity meets the following syllabus outcomes: |
Science and Technology K-6 OutcomesThis activity meets the following syllabus outcomes: Stage 3 |
Keywords
gross pollution trap ~ filter ~ habitat ~ infiltration ~ degradation ~ capacity ~ wetland ~ sediment ~ erosion ~ fishway ~ bund ~ retention
Process
1. Identify Issue
Students work individually or in teams to imagine they are professionals faced with the challenge of coming up with some innovative designs to clean up the local creek. They should choose one of the problems identified in Sections 4 and 5 and develop a creative `solution to pollution'.
2. Develop an Innovative Solution
Students brainstorm ideas about how to prevent pollution. Their approach could be to:
- design a small community education project targeting one issue or group, or
- develop an on-site method for pollution control, or
- design an `end-of-pipe' stormwater treatment device.
They may also like to contact their local council to find out what stormwater pollution prevention activities are being implemented in the local area.
3. Present Ideas
Individuals/student teams can present their design to the class. If the solution is to a school issue they may also like to make a presentation to the school principal. It may be interesting to invite a representative of local government to hear their ideas.