Activity Overview
Rainforests at the Crossroads: Simulate the greenhouse effect by collecting and analyzing temperature data in three conditions: an open beaker, a covered beaker, and a covered beaker into which they breathe. Simulate the sun with a lamp for heat.
Before the Activity
See the attached teacher document (pdf file) for notes and guidelines for this activity.
Print and copy the attached activity document and research article (pdf files) for your class. The research article is in the during the activity section below.
During the Activity
Students will:
Model the greenhouse effect using bottles sealed with plastic wrap and the air they exhale
Simulate the sun with a lamp, and collect temperature data with Temperature Sensors that are connected to a TI CBL2™
or Vernier LabPro® and a TI-73 Explorer™
Collect and analyze temperature data in two conditions: a sealed bottle and a sealed bottle into which they breathe
Directions
Distribute the activity document and research article to your class
Read and discuss the research article
Follow the activity procedures outlined in the student document
After the Activity
Students complete the data analysis section of the activity
Discuss the results of the data analysis with your students