Teachers Domain: Air Quality Index
Grades: 6-12
Description: This lesson examines how data related to pollutants in the air are collected and reported. The AQI, or Air Quality Index, is derived from daily calculations of four major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act. These are ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide. The activity explains the index values, which range from 0–50 (Good) to 301–500 (Hazardous); describes each pollutant and identifies its sources; and details its health effects, including which populations are at greatest risk.
5 Star Rating: 
Likes: I think it is good for students to use technology tools to find AQI.
Dislikes: A month is a long time to keep students’ enthusiasm up for a project.
Helpful Hints: I would have students bring in data to fill in a classroom chart and then graph a comparison of all cities at the end of the month. I would have students pick from a few cities to understand the differences across the country.
Missing Elements: N/A
Additional Comments: N/A
5 Star Rating: 
Likes: The information that is presented is very informative. I like the monitoring of an area or city over time to collect and analyze data.
Dislikes: The resources for gathering information are there, but there is a lack of ideas as to what to do with the research. It would be very difficult for below level learners to get much out of the website given vocabulary used.
Helpful Hints: N/A
Missing Elements: There should be more activities related to the lesson.
Additional Comments: There is not much to the lesson at all. You would need to build some background knowledge before presenting the website to students.