Center for Earth and Environmental Science
Indiana University ~ Purdue University, Indianapolis

IUPUI
School of Science
Department of Earth Sciences

New Spring 2009 Programs! Understanding Global and Local Albedo Algal Bloom Investigation Soil Biology and Respiration Understanding Global and Local Albedo Description:  Albedo is the measurement of the amount of solar radiation that is reflected off of a surface.  Ice and snow reflect a large amount of solar radiation causing a high albedo measurement, while the open ocean and soil reflect less solar radiation causing a low albedo measurement.  Solar energy that is absorbed is later emitted as heat. Students will study albedo as it relates to the earth, the local urban heat island effect and the likely results of reduced snow and ice cover on global temperatures.  Students will use Vernier LabQuest handhelds and sensors to measure the temperature and reflected light of different land surfaces on their school grounds.  Using data measurements and observational accounts of weather, students will draw conclusions about the local albedo effect in their area. Length of Program:  Two required visits per participating class. First visit will be introductory, occur either inside or outside, with or without trailer, for a typical class period.  Second visit will follow program description, occur outside, with trailer and equipment for 1.5-2 hours.  For ease of programming, introductory visit should occur the day before the field visit. If school schedule allows, the program can be one day, 3 hours. Program Availability:  August 24 - November 25, 2009 and March 29 – June 11, 2010. Site Requirements:  No specific site requirements.  Program can be done on most school sites. Cost:  None.  All equipment, teaching materials, and technology are provide free of charge. Full program description, learning objectives, Indiana Academic Standards for Science and Math and Excellence in Environmental Education - Guidelines for Learning (Pre K - 12) To schedule a program or receive more information, please contact Brooke Furge, Education Specialist. Top  Algal Bloom Investigation Description:  Students determine the likelihood that an algal bloom will occur on their school site stream or pond by identifying and assessing certain physical, chemical and biological components believed to be associated with algal blooms.   Students use Vernier LabQuest scientific handhelds and sensors to measure pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature.  Additional physical and chemical parameters— flow rate, nitrates/phosphates, load rates, light intensity levels—are estimated using nutrient testing kits, light sensors and various field techniques.  Using personal observation skills, students look for biological indicators and note relevant environmental conditions including air temperature, cloud cover, seasonal/weather conditions, habitat alterations, and potential land use inputs. Length of Program:  Two required visits per participating class. First visit will be introductory, occur either inside or outside, with or without trailer, for a typical class period.  Second visit will follow program description, occur outside, with trailer and equipment for 1.5-2 hours.  For ease of programming, introductory visit should occur the day before the field visit. If school schedule allows, the program can be one day, 3 hours. Program Availability:  August 24 - November 25, 2009 and March 29 – June 11, 2010. Site Requirements:  Access to river, stream, pond or other body of water. Cost:  None.  All equipment, teaching materials, and technology are provide free of charge. Full program description, learning objectives, Indiana Academic Standards for Science and Math and Excellence in Environmental Education - Guidelines for Learning (Pre K - 12) To schedule a program or receive more information, please contact Brooke Furge, Education Specialist. Top  Soil Biology and Respiration Description:  Using quantification and observation skills, students learn about soil microbes, their function, and why they are important for ecosystem regulation.  Using Vernier LabQuest scientific handhelds and O2 and CO2 sensors, students explore soil biological activity by calculating changes in microbial respiration over time.  By measuring soil temperature, moisture, pH, soil texture and infiltration rates, students will be able to investigate other soil properties that have an impact on microbial activity.   Collected data is analyzed and conclusions are drawn about the overall productivity of the soil at their school site. Length of Program:  Two required visits per participating class. First visit will be introductory, occur either inside or outside, with or without trailer, for a typical class period.  Second visit will follow program description, occur outside, with trailer and equipment for 1.5-2 hours.  For ease of programming, introductory visit should occur the day before the field visit. If school schedule allows, the program can be one day, 3 hours. Program Availability:  August 24 - November 25, 2009 and March 29 – June 11, 2010. Site Requirements: Access to soil.  Program can be done on most school sites.   Cost:  None.  All equipment, teaching materials, and technology are provide free of charge. Full program description, learning objectives, Indiana Academic Standards for Science and Math and Excellence in Environmental Education - Guidelines for Learning (Pre K - 12) To schedule a program or receive more information, please contact Brooke Furge, Education Specialist. Top  Brooke Furge Education Specialist IUPUI Center for Earth and Environmental Science 723 West Michigan Street, SL 118 Indianapolis, IN  46202 bfurge@iupui.edu

We are pleased to announce that Veolia Water Indianapolis has made the lead philanthropic gift to this program. We have also received significant funding support from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, Dow AgroSciences, Duke Energy, Hoover Family Foundation and Indianapolis Power & Light Company with proposals currently in review by additional foundations and corporations. For more information about the program and opportunities for program sponsorship, please contact us.

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Center for Earth and Environmental Science
 School of Science
 Indiana University~Purdue University, Indianapolis
 723 West Michigan Street, SL118
 Indianapolis, IN 46202
 www.cees.iupui.edu
 cees@iupui.edu