Education sessions on microplastics
Using Daphnia, or water fleas, as a model organism that live in freshwater environments, we can explore how microplastics are impacting the ecosystem. Fluorescently stained plastics are a useful tool in evaluating how much plastic is ingested, and what effects the ingestion has on the organism. For example, does it affect the Daphnia’s swimming? Or how much they can eat? This project allows for hands on experience with techniques used in microplastics research to explore some of the complexities of this ubiquitous form of pollution.
Through this project, we can deliver hands on, practical sessions (1 - 2 hours) for students to discuss the research process and the impacts that microplastics can have in the environment.
This includes microscopy work using live Daphnia to look at the change in movement and to identify the presence of microplastics in the Daphnia guts. This will be used to focus the discussion on the impacts of aquatic pollution, and the importance of ensuring healthy ecosystems as well as the important role of daphnids as “indicator species” for freshwater health.
These experiments are well suited for GCSE and A level students and links to aspects of their respective curriculum in the sciences such as organism interaction with their ecosystems and evolutionary adaptations. Students will have the opportunity to take their own photos with the use of fluorescence lights to observe the scale of ingestion, and discuss with researchers how we might be able to solve the plastics problem going forwards.
PLUS, virtual resources will also be available based on this research including videos of experiments and worksheets to discuss the results and the main issues around this problem.
All sessions and materials are FREE.
If your school / class / organisation is interested in either of these opportunities (hands-on session on access to virtual lesson plans and materials) please register your interest
This project was funded by the University of Birmingham Public Engagement Grant.