Educational Materials

We created these materials to help students understand PFAS, the “forever chemicals” found in everyday products and water supplies, including here in North Carolina. Through hands-on research and a role-play town hall, students learn the science behind PFAS and practice weighing health, economic, and environmental concerns to make a real-world decision.

Instructions:

These materials are presented through two phases. Start with the Webquest, then do the Town Hall Simulation. The webquest gives students the background they need to argue from an informed perspective.

• PHASE 1: PFAS Webquest (about 1 class period): Students work individually or in pairs with a device. If time is short, assign the Part 3 summary as homework. The Webquest will allow students to get a general overview on PFAS contamination.

• PHASE 2: Town Hall Simulation (about 2 class periods):

  • Period/Day 1 - Research: Split the class into groups of seven and assign each student a role. If your class isn’t a multiple of seven, double up on a role or let a student take on two. Students read only their role’s sources, plus at least two remediation articles, and complete their Research Notes.

  • Period/Day 2 - Simulation: The Mayor chairs the meeting, each role presents, and the group must agree on a plan covering who pays, how the plant is regulated, and how to protect health while limiting economic harm. The Mayor leads the final vote on the decided plan.

Here is the link to the Webquest and the Research/Simulation worksheets!