Air Aware Lab
Making Healthier Spaces
Grades 4-6
Overview
In Air Aware Lab, students become environmental engineers as they build and test a simple air cleaner using a box fan, filter, cardboard, and tape. Through hands-on experimentation, they explore how air moves, how particles are captured, and how design choices can improve indoor air quality. This toolkit connects science and engineering to a real-world health challenge: creating cleaner, safer spaces to breathe.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Investigate how air moves and carries particles.
Explain how filters remove matter from the air.
Design and construct a working air-cleaning device.
Collect and analyze data from tests.
Improve a prototype using evidence and observations.
Communicate scientific explanations using models and data.
TEKS Alignment
Texas 5th Grade Science TEKS Alignment
TEKS 5.1: Scientific and Engineering Practices
TEKS 5.6: Matter and Energy
TEKS 5.7: Force, Motion, and Energy
TEKS 5.12: Organisms and Environment
Classroom Use
Break students into 3 groups. Each kit contains materials to make 3 DIY air cleaners. Ideal for 1 class period (approx. 45 minutes)
Materials
20-inch box fan
MERV 13 or similar air filter
Cardboard
Duct tape or masking tape
Scissors
Timer
Dust, paper particles, or safe particle source for testing
Observation/data sheets
Request a Toolkit
For Houston-area teachers, we are offering free environmental education toolkits. Reach out and we will send your classroom one of our toolkits complimentary.
