Subject: Science, Sustainability of Ecosystems, Carbon Cycle
Grade Level:
5th through 8th Grade
Class Dates: One class period
Overview: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the chief greenhouse gas produced by human activity, and the main contributor to the greenhouse effect. While the use of gasoline and other fossil fuels adds to the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, biofuels recycle what’s already there.
Objectives: This lesson developed by the University of Ontario Institute of Technology will give students an introduction to the importance of carbon. They will learn about its role as the building block of life, and look at the cycling of carbon throughout Earth and the role it has on our planet.
Materials:
• Pre-assessment quiz/answer key
• Teacher-led handout/answer key
• Post-assessment quiz/answer key
• Data projector and Internet connection
Activities:
• Access lesson and materials here.
• A fun, interactive game to
teach students about the carbon cycle can be downloaded here.
Lab Safety Guidelines:
1. Use caution: No horseplay, practical jokes, or pranks are
allowed in the science classroom.
2. Follow all instructions carefully, and ask your teacher
if you do not understand something.
3. Do not touch any equipment until instructed to do so.
4. Do not eat, drink, chew gum, or taste anything in the
science classroom.
5. Wash your hands with soap and water before entering and
leaving class.
6. Wear safety goggles when instructed.
7. Keep work area neat and clean. Remove all unnecessary
materials.
8. Clean work area and equipment when you're finished with
the experiment. Dispose of all waste properly.
9. Tell your teacher about any accident immediately.
10. Most chemicals used in the science room are dangerous.
Do not touch or smell any chemicals unless told to do so.
11. Students are not allowed to enter any storage closet at
any time.
12. Do not remove any supplies from the science classroom
without your teacher’s permission.
13. Use care when handling glassware. Never pick up broken
or hot glassware with your bare hands.
14. Use extreme caution when using matches, burners, or hot
plates. Only light burners when told to do so by your teacher, and do not put
anything into a flame unless specifically instructed to do so. Do not leave lit
burners unattended.
15. Dress properly: Long hair must be tied back, and no
dangling sleeves or jewelry is allowed. Wear closed-toe and heeled shoes. Wear
lab aprons as instructed.
16. Memorize the location of all safety equipment and
emergency exits.
Adapted from middleschoolscience.com.
