Resources for Activity 2: Things Aren't Always What They Seem

Overview:
Students will identify their perception of the relative degree of risk associated with technologies, environmental hazards, and everyday activities. They will also have the opportunity to share their ideas as they compare and contrast their perceptions with those of others, including experts and lay people.

Student Pages:
Perceived Risk for 30 Activities and Technologies
Risk Perception Factors
Ordering of Perceived Risk for 30 Activities and Technologies
Experts vs. Lay People
Environmental Risk Survey
Perceived Risk for 24 Activities
Environmental Research Needs
Environmental Risks: Research Priorities

Additional Resources:
Article on Risk of Cell Phone Use

Teaching About Controversial Topics in Science
This new series in NSTA Reports is based on the NSTA Press book Thinking Scientifically About Controversial Issues: Clones, Cats, and Chemicals. The book examines 10 dilemmas from the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, technology, and mathematics to help challenge students to confront scientific and social problems that offer few black-and-white solutions. It provides the facts and the framework to provoke classroom debates.

Earth & Sky Radio Correlations
This activity can be supplemented with related Earth & Sky radio shows that you can download for use in your classroom. Learn about the PLT and Earth & Sky Initiative.

Related Earth & Sky Shows:
- Reza Fazel Says Medical Imaging Carries Risks (2009)
- Elke Anklam Describes Nanofoods’ Benefits and Possible Risks (2009) 
- Makhijani Believes Nuclear Power is Too Costly and Too Risky (2009)