Interaction with Atmosphere
Lesson Plan Title
Human Impacts on the Earth's Atmosphere
General Goal(s)
This lesson will introduce the variety of ways in which humans impact the earth's atmosphere.
Specific Objectives
Use a computer presentation to explain the ways in which humans impact the atmosphere. Specifically:
- Greenhouse gases
- Ozone depleting species
- Air pollution
Complete a hands-on activity by building a spectroscope - example of instrument used to view dispersion of various light sources.
Required Materials
computer and projector, blank cds, card stock paper with printed spectroscope template , scissors, tape, box cutter for cutting slit in template, variety of light bulbs, coloured pencils, photocopy of worksheet
Atmospheric Impacts Lesson Plan Gr. 6-8 | ![]() |
Atmosheric Impacts Power Point Gr. 6-8 | ![]() |
Atmosheric Impacts Power Point Gr. 6-8 (Teacher Notes Included) | ![]() |
Lead-In
The teacher could introduce the lesson by leading a quick question and answer section on the atmosphere in the news to see what students already know.
Step-By-Step Procedures
- Lead in (5-10 min)
- Deliver computer presentation (25 min)
- Give an explanation of how spectroscopes work and how they can be used. (10 min)
- Have students build spectroscopes (10 min)
- Have students use spectroscopes to analyze light and record their results on the worksheet. (15-20 min)
Plan for Independent Practice
Have the students take the spectroscopes home to analyze other types light sources. Provide a question sheet about the activity.
Assessment Based on Objectives
- Collect worksheet and or question sheet for marking.
- Did students accurately draw spectra?
- Do students understand the meaning of the difference between the spectra?
- Can students draw assumptions from learned information?
Useful Links
Build a Spectroscope
Ozone Layer Fact Sheet
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Spectroscope Activity Sheet
Keywords
Environment, impacts, interaction, radiation, weather, wavelengths, infrared, ultraviolet, absorption, atmosphere, pollution, ozone layer, climate change