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Three 50-minute classes.
What do the “Mad Hatter,” fluorescent bulbs, and some fish
have in common? These items contain the silver-colored, heavy metal
element, mercury. This naturally occurring substance can cause health
and environmental problems when released in the air and water by human
actions. Students are familiar with the use of mercury in thermometers,
but it is also used in light switches, flashing lights in shoes, batteries,
antibacterial products containing thimerosal, blue tinted headlights
and hundreds of other products. Large amounts of mercury are released
in the air when coal, oil, and natural gas are burned in the generation
of electricity. Long-term exposure to mercury can cause damage to the
kidneys, liver, and nervous system and is especially risky for children
and women of child bearing age.
In the following activities students will locate information on the
presence and affects of mercury in the environment. Mercury presence
in household and school items will be identified as well as its presence
in local aquatic environments. The bioaccumulation of mercury in various
organisms from the bottom to the top of a food chain will be demonstrated.
Science
The learner will:
• Differentiate between the animal classes.
• Identify strategies animals use to protect themselves.
• Identify basic needs of animals.
• Explain the role of zoos in preventing animal extinction.
National Science Education Standards
http://www.nap.edu/books/0309053269/html/index.html
Standard C: Life Science
• Develop understanding of structure and function living systems
and populations and ecosystems
Standard F: Science in Personal and Social Perspectives
• Develop understanding of personal health, populations,
resources, and environments, risks and benefits, science and
technology
in society.
Louisiana Science Frameworks: State Standards for Curriculum Development
http:www.doe.state.la.us/doe/assessment/standards/SCIENCE.pdf
SE-M-A4: Understanding that human actions can create risks and
consequences in the environment.
• Worksheet 1: Mercury in Our Favorite FIshing Spots!
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