Why Clean Air Matters More Than Ever
Lesson Plans
Grades9, 10, 11, 12Earth and Space Sciences, Health
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
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What it is
- This lesson explores the connections between air quality and respiratory health.
- Students will understand the implications of the EPA rolling back air quality protections, how climate change impacts air quality, and how air quality can worsen existing health conditions.
Teaching tips
Classroom Implementation:
- Assign these clips as homework for students to view and analyze in preparation for a Socratic seminar-style discussion, using the discussion questions included in the lesson.
Extensions:
- Have students research policies that would put more protections in place for environmental health, or draft a policy proposal that would protect environmental health.
- Have students look up their community's current AQI on AirNow.gov and compare it to national averages.
- After reading, students could research their local air quality regulations and write a letter to a public official.
From the scientist review
This resource explores the links between air quality and respiratory health. The text is well-sourced, with one peer-reviewed reference and several from credible news sources. Environmental justice issues are clearly addressed, and air quality is connected to climate action. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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