1. MANMADE CLOUDS

Scientists in Australia are working on a special project to protect the Great Barrier Reef, which is getting hurt by hotter ocean water. They are using boats and machines to spray tiny bits of saltwater into the air to make clouds or fog. These clouds help cool the ocean by blocking some sunlight, giving the coral a better chance to survive. Coral can get sick and lose its color when the water gets too hot. If this happens too often, coral reefs could disappear—and they are home to lots of ocean animals! This idea of making clouds is called geoengineering, and it’s just one way people are trying to help nature in new ways. Now that you’ve learned how scientists are making clouds to help protect coral reefs, pretend you are part of their ocean team! In a short paragraph, describe what it would be like to spend a day on the research boat. What do you see, hear, and do? Then, write a letter to a friend or family member explaining why coral reefs are important and how your team is trying to save them.

2. SMOKE OVER N.Y.C.

Smoke from wildfires in Canada has drifted into New York City, making the air unhealthy to breathe, especially for kids and people with asthma or other breathing problems. The air was so bad that officials warned people to stay inside and avoid doing things like running or playing outside. Wildfire smoke has been a big problem in the U.S. the past few years. It can travel far in the wind and make the sky look hazy or even orange. Experts say climate change is making these wildfires worse, and leaders in the U.S. and Canada are talking about how to fix the problem. Look up the Air Quality Index (AQI) for your town or city today using a website like airnow.gov or a weather app. Then, answer the following questions in complete sentences: What is the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area today? What does that number mean— is the air quality good, okay, or unhealthy? What are two things you could do to stay safe if the air is smoky or polluted? Why is it important to take care of our air?

3. WILD CONCERTS

Hunter Noack is a classical pianist who doesn’t just play music in concert halls—he brings his big, fancy piano into nature! For 10 years, he’s been performing outdoors in places like mountains, forests, and near lakes. He travels with a team who helps move the piano on a special trailer that turns into a stage. Hunter started this project, called In A Landscape, to bring music to people in rural places and help them enjoy the beauty of nature while listening to classical music. Sometimes, animals like whales and deer even come to listen! Imagine you could bring music anywhere in the world. Where would you go and why? In a few sentences, describe the place you would choose to perform and what kind of music you’d play. Then, draw a picture of your concert in nature, including the scenery, the audience, and any animals that might show up to listen.

4. TURF DEBATE

More and more towns across the U.S. are replacing natural grass fields with artificial turf—fields made from plastic that look like grass. These turf fields are popular because they can be used in any weather and don’t need to be watered or mowed. But some people are worried. Scientists and coaches say turf can get too hot, flood easily, and may have harmful chemicals. Others say it’s too expensive to replace when it gets damaged. In some places, people are arguing over whether turf is safe and worth the cost. While some towns are building more turf fields to help kids play sports, others are choosing to keep natural grass to protect the environment and children’s health. Imagine your town is building a new sports field, and you get to help decide if it should be made of real grass or artificial turf. In 3 to 5 sentences, explain which type of field you would choose and why. Use examples from the story in your answer.

5. CHANGES FOR FOOD BRANDS

Some famous food brands like Kool-Aid, Oscar Mayer, and Kraft Mac & Cheese aren’t selling as well as they used to. People are buying less of these packaged foods because prices have gone up, and many shoppers want healthier options with fewer fake ingredients. Some people are also taking weight-loss medicine that makes them feel less hungry. This means they’re not buying as many snacks. To keep up, food companies are trying new things, like adding protein and fiber to snacks, making drinks with natural ingredients, and creating fun new flavors. Some big companies are even breaking into smaller ones to help each part grow. Food companies are working hard to figure out what people want to eat today—and what they’ll want in the future! Think about a snack or food you like that comes in a box, bottle, or package. In a few sentences, describe what it is and why you like it. Then, imagine you work for the company that makes that snack. What could you do to make it healthier or more exciting so more people want to buy it? Write down 3 to 5 ideas.