Global warming
has become a central topic for many people in the past decade. You can create projects in a variety of sciences to illustrate aspects of this complex process. Choose a specific science that interests your students before deciding on an experiment. Research the materials needed and consider their age or grade level before finalizing a choice.
Elementary School
Understanding weather and the changes created by global warming are an excellent start for a variety of science projects at this level. Students can illustrate the El Nino effect or demonstrate the greenhouse effect in a jar. Demonstrate how increased carbon dioxide levels affect plant growth. Discover how changes in color and surface types affect the heat trapping ability of greenhouses. Conduct solar thermal experiments that illustrate the greenhouse effect.
Middle School
Students at this level can create projects that require more detailed research. Determine what effect changes in the ozone layer have on the penguin population in Antarctica. Test various landscaping materials, such as rocks and wood chips, to determine their effect on cooling the earth. Investigate if different gas grades create various amounts of carbon dioxide. Research the effects of fossil fuels on the ozone layer. Explore the effect of urban heat islands. Choose a specific animal species and research the effect of global warming on that species. Illustrate how biodiesel is made and how it can be used.
High School
High school students are capable of more complex ideas and intricate experiments. Determine if keeping kosher is good for the environment. Analyze the effect of carpooling. Research which U.S. city contributes the most toward global warming. Investigate the effects of the loss of the rain forest on global warming. Illustrate how changes in the polar cap affect the polar bears. Demonstrate how climate change can affect people's lives. Build a model solar car.
Tips
Be specific when choosing an issue to demonstrate or study. Utilize the scientific method of observation, hypothesis, prediction, experimentation and conclusion. Modify the experiment to the age and skill level of the student. Research should utilize current information from a trusted source.
Potential
Science projects on a variety of specifics create a basic knowledge of this complex subject. Students may choose to continue their studies and create new solutions for this issue.
