Introduction to Indoor Air Pollution – Air Filters in Action Lab – Teacher

Summary

This lab is part of the full Indoor Air Pollution lesson plan. Find the student version of the lab here.

This air filter lab activity gives students a hands-on model for understanding how filters reduce particle exposure indoors. Students simulate airborne particles using cocoa powder and test a filter material by comparing results with and without filtration.

What students do

• Build a simple shoebox test chamber
• Use cocoa powder to represent airborne particles
• Run a no-filter trial and a filter trial
• Collect results on a sticky collection card
• Answer analysis questions about effectiveness and design trade-offs

What teachers get

• Clear setup directions and safety notes
• Materials list using common classroom supplies
• Data tables and analysis prompts
• Extension ideas for improving the design
• Answer key and sample responses

How to use it

• Run as the lab portion of the full lesson sequence
• Use as a one-day lab with discussion and an exit ticket
• Use the analysis section to support CER writing or small group discussion