Teaching students to be environmentally conscious in an integrated science course

Intermediate Integrated Science is a course that combines biology, chemistry, earth science, physical science, and environmental science. One of the units recently added to the curriculum is one on air, water, and soil pollution. The objectives for this unit emphasized hands on activities, laboratory experiments, and real world applications. The students were tested on the objectives prior to the unit. During the unit they experienced science through laboratory experiments and activities.;At the conclusion of the unit, a post-test was given that included five multiple-choice questions and eleven short answer questions. This test was identical to the pretest. Interviews of students were also conducted using their ability level on past tests to determine the candidates selected. They were asked identical questions to determine the effect of the unit on students. The material presented was intended to give students skills and practices they could use as they prepare to leave high school. The response from the students based on teacher observations was positive and the students seemed to be enthusiastic about learning. In addition to the enjoyable learning environment provided, the students test scores went from an average of 25% on the pretest to 68% on the posttest.