Science Projects on the Greenhouse Effect
The Earth's temperature is controlled by gases that release into the air in order to absorb heat as it bounces from the Earth's surface into the air. If such gases did not exist, the Earth would be one frozen tundra--but an excess of these gases makes the Earth hotter. Scientists believe that more and more gases are being released by human activities, causing a global greenhouse effect or global warming. Bring it into your classroom and have your children learn about the greenhouse effect and ways it may affect the world.
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Reports
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Instead of teaching students about the greenhouse effect, encourage them to learn about it on their own. Have them utilize the Internet or their school library as they write their reports. The goal of the report should be for students to explain how the greenhouse effect works and what the changes it brings about will mean for humans on Earth. Students can present their findings orally, by making a poster to present to the class or by making a website explaining the phenomenon.
Study the Gases
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The greenhouse effect wouldn't work without the gases in the atmosphere that propel the process. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor and nitrous oxide. Combined together, they help keep the greenhouse effect moving. Have students make models of the gases out of Styrofoam or draw them. Students can also delve into exploration via the Internet or books and discuss what happens where there are more or less than usual amounts of the gases.
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The Jar Project
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Students can break into groups and collaboratively perform a simple project to simulate the greenhouse effect. Give each group thermometers, jars and sunlamps. If you do not have access to sunlamps, this activity can be done outside. Students will place their jars in direct light on top of the thermometers. One jar will remain uncovered while the other jar will stay covered. Have students check the thermometers every ten minutes for an hour. The uncovered jar should show a reading that is changing while the covered jar will get warmer and warmer, just like with the greenhouse effect.
Debate
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Some people do not believe in global warming and do not believe the greenhouse effect is the Earth warmer. In order to be fully educated and integrated into the world, students should be aware of arguments on all sides of the issue. Assign students a point of view that doesn't necessarily mimic their own. Have students write a paper explaining why global warming does or does not exist or have students debate in front of the class with their assigned positions. This will encourage students to use fact-based data and defend an argument.
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References
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