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Goal

One of my goals as a Chemistry teacher is to create awareness in students of STEM careers which was also the focus of my Master’s Degree studies. Our basic needs for food and energy is now related to STEM careers. The project I propose is to create an algae growing station where we can extract the oil as a potential biofuel. The process incorporates several Chemistry concepts as well as builds awareness of potential alternative fuels. 

What will be done with my students

In getting feedback from students last year, most students responded that alternative energy was an area they would like to learn more about. Chemistry is a difficult topic for many and as it is now becoming a requirement for high school graduation, anything I can do to connect with students’ interest makes a difference. Students in small groups will help bring in materials such as plastic bottles. Each group will set up a container following basic instructions, but may make alterations they think will optimize algae production. The set-up will either be in a bright hallway window (with permission) or under grow lights from another grant request. Air valves need to be monitored and balanced every day. After 2 weeks or so the algae should be ready to separate the oil using chemistry processes such as a centrifuge or simply decanting.
Students will be required to demonstrate an understanding of the chemical processes of algal growth, energy transformation and the pros and cons of using algae as an alternative fuel. They may also be able to compare efficiency with ethanol and fossil fuel. Energy sources continue to be a growing area of any science curriculum.
 

Benefits to my students

The benefits of this project are many. Students often learn information through research projects, but they do not have the same impact as seeing and creating with their own hands and resources. I believe in these prime years students need to learn of what careers have potential for the future. They are all aware of the fossil fuel crises, but few say they are choosing developing alternative sources as a career. Not only will it increase awareness and potential, but I can introduce them to examples in their own community such as the geothermal plant at the Conservancy and Agenol in Ft. Myers (Who is very willing to open their door to a field trip).
Equipment will be able to be reused year after year.
They may also be able to witness “algal bloom” due to excess nitrogen and apply that knowledge to our Florida ecology.
 

Budget Narrative

I have researched basic and cost effective set ups for growing algae in a classroom. Simple aquarium pumps with multiple connectors and tubing is all that is required besides the proper algae starter which can be ordered from Carolina Biological Supply and a basic fertilizer. 

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