HEALTHY SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT:
1.TESTING AND MONITORING INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN THE SCHOOL BUILDING: In March, 2014, the "Green Club" (18 members of 9th-11th students) tested and monitored the indoor air quality in the school using the Spec equipment from Carolina Biological. The equipment measures the level of carbon dioxide, temperature, and humidity. Students researched the healthy range of these parameters and compared the result of their tests to the standard range. Students also used a survey/checklist to identify the possible sources of air pollution in the classrooms. Students visited every classroom and measured the levels of carbon dioxide, temperature, and humidity using the equipment and surveyed the condition of the classroom to identify the possible sources of air pollution. Students had also a chance to interview few teachers about the air quality in their classroom.
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2. TESTING THE QUALITY OF BOTTLED WATER AND TAP WATER: Forty-three 9th grade environmental science students tested and compared the quality of different brands of bottled water and tap water in January, 2014. Prior to the investigation, students were involved in reading an article about bottled water. After the investigation, students were asked to develop an argument answering the question "Which is safer to drink, tap water or bottled water?". A rigorous conversation about student's personal views and personal experiences followed. Students then watched the video "The Story of the Bottled Water" where students learned facts about tap water vs. bottled water. In the video, students also learned that plastic bottles are causing a serious environmental problem not just in the United States but worldwide. At the conclusion of this three-day lesson, students were asked to write a bill proposal to regulate the production of the bottled water. This lesson was an eye-opener to most of the students. The kit used in this investigation was provided by a grant from Donorschoose.
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3.STUDENTS PREPARED AND DISTRIBUTED GREEN CLEANERS: After testing the air quality in every classroom, students learned that some teachers are using commercial air freshener and disinfectants which could potentially become a source of indoor air pollution. On March 18-28, 2014 the Green Club (with 18 members of 9th-11th grade students) prepared and distributed green cleaners (air freshener, disinfectant, white board cleaner) to the classrooms and offices. These products were made from non-toxic kitchen ingredients like white vinegar, baking powder, essential oil extracts, and water. The students also provided teachers with green recipe and a short explanation of why use essential oils. Students designed a logo and labelled their products "Green Harmony". Teachers can either make their own solution with the directions provided on the bottles or they can inform a Green Club member and the Green Club will refill their bottles. Teachers were emailed about the products, there were an overwhelming response from teachers expressing how they like the products and commending/appreciating the Green Club for their initiative.
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3. INDOOR GARDEN TO IMPROVE AIR QUALITY: Ms. Wilson and Mr. Herrera's second period biology classes which is composed of 50 students combined in cooperation with the Green Club (composed of eighteen 9th-11th grade students), set-up an indoor garden in March, 2014. The garden is being maintained and continue to expand. The Green Club works after school while the Biology classes work during the school hours. The students transplanted the seedlings (herbs) from Great Kids Farm, students also grow their own vegetable seeds in the classroom. The main goal of this joint project is to improve the air quality in the building. The garden will also serve as a learning center for science classes, where students can conduct their observations and science activities (i.e. phototropism) using the garden as a tool for learning the Ecology unit of Biology class. The garden will eventually become a source of edible herbs and vegetables.
4. STUDENTS TESTED COMMONLY TOUCHED SURFACES FOR BACTERIA: In November, 2013 Ms. Wilson's 4th period biology class (composed of 25 students) tested commonly touched surfaces for bacteria. Students used agar plates as medium for bacteria culture. Students tested the presence of bacteria on hands and desk washed with regular soap and antibacterial soap. This lesson made students understand that hand washing is a necessary practice to keep oneself healthy and free from pathogens.
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