Seventh Graders Spark Solutions with Algae-Powered Science

As part of their studies on environmental change due to human impact, the seventh-grade science class is exploring how carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels contributes to the greenhouse effect. This process traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

To better understand potential solutions, students have designed small-scale carbon capture devices made from coffee cans and funnels. These devices capture carbon dioxide emitted from a candle, symbolizing a factory releasing carbon emissions into the environment. The captured carbon dioxide is then directed to algae farms, where the algae utilize it for photosynthesis—a process that requires sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to produce energy and fuel algae growth.

While this setup is on a classroom scale, students discuss how it reflects larger-scale possibilities. Real-world algae farms could help reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide, using it as a resource to grow biofuel—an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

Each class, students observe and document the algae's color and changes, directly witnessing photosynthesis in action. They will present their findings in the coming weeks before Thanksgiving.

This project was inspired by lessons in the book Engineering in the Life Sciences, co-authored by Peck's Science Department Chair Dr. Kathy Kennedy, which encourages hands-on learning of abstract concepts.

“Using algae as a biofuel is something scientists are actually exploring in the real world," said Upper School Science Teacher JT McMillen. "Seeing this process on a small scale is a unique opportunity that can inspire students to pursue similar work in the future after getting a taste of it here in seventh-grade science.”