The video lasts 15 minutes and the intended audience is middle school children. The video describes current regulations in Delaware on open burning; harmful air pollutants that are produced from refuse burning and alternatives to burning refuse (composting, recycling, landfills).

    The focus of the video, a 7th grade science class, is given various assignments relating to Earth Day and preservation of our natural resources. Two children in particular are given the assignment to research and report on the hazards of open air trash burning and are asked to investigate alternative ways to dispose of refuse. Upon brainstorming how to find information on the topic, the kids decide to contact the host of a popular children’s science show on broadcast television named Proton Dan the Science Man (a fictitious character and show based on "Bill Nye the Science Guy"). The host then invites the kids to the studio where he films his show and takes them through the topic. The TV host character takes the children to several external locations like a landfill, recycling centers, etc.... Several experiments illustrating the hazards of open air burning are performed, both on location and in the studio. The video ends with the children receiving an "A" for their assignment on open air refuse burning.

    To obtain a copy call Terri Brixen at (302) 323-4542

 

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Last Update: 07/23/01 10:36