Ozone Puppet Show

Developed by: Melinda Wright

Summary: The students will be able to identify the ozone layer and Its Impact on the earth's environment. Students will also be able to explain the Impact man has on that layer.

Connection to the Curriculum: This module allows students to investigate and evaluate information about their environment. They will be able to present their findings by participating in a puppet show.

TEKS Alignment: Science 5.3.D, 5.11 A, 5.11 C

                               Language Arts 5.4 A, 5.5 C

Time:  6 one-hour class periods, including puppet making.

Season: Optional

 Materials:

Computer access

Reference books

EPA script

Cardboard materials for constructing a stage

Paints for props

Materials for puppets

Large plastic totes for storing puppets

Objectives:

*The learner will discover that the ozone layer is a layer of ozone gas that surrounds the Earth.

*The learner will identify that the ozone layer is around 15 to 35km above the Earth's surface.

*The learner will convey that the ozone layer is like a natural filter that prevents much of the sun's ultraviolet rays from reaching the Earth.

"'The learner will recognize that ultraviolet rays could harm us if the ozone layer was not in place.

*The learner will distinguish between the "good" ozone gas and "bad" ozone gas.

*The learner will indicate chemicals that harm the ozone layer, creating a "hole".

*The learner will specify strategies that man can do to protect the ozone layer.

Procedures:

1. Students will research information on the ozone layer and the role it plays In the Earth's environment. Research must include where the ozone layer is, how it relates to our world, chemicals that harm it and the impact that will have on our Earth .

2. Students will review and discuss the EPA script.

3. Students will brainstorm Ideas for the puppet show and props.

4. Students will divide in to groups. Groups will be assigned to work on the stage, props and puppets.

5. Students are provided time to plan, create and complete their work.

6. Students will decide on puppeteers and will practice their performance.

7. Students will perform their puppet show for other classes.

 8. Students will reflect upon their experience.

 Questions:

What is the ozone layer?

Where is the ozone layer located?

How does the ozone layer protect the Earth?

Can you list items that harm the ozone layer?

How do they harm the ozone layer?

How will that affect people?

What can people do to protect the ozone layer?

What is the “hole" in the ozone layer?

Can it be repaired? How? Explain in detail.

Evaluation:

Students will survey classes that watched their puppet show and evaluate if the information, they presented, was successfully learned by those students. Students will create a multi-media display.

Expanding the Lesson:

Natural alternatives to chemicals

Environmental studies

Slip, Slap, Slop -protecting your skin from the sun's rays

Resources:

The Ozone Layer web site: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ozone/tockidzn.htm

US EPA  6