The University of Wisconsin-Superior will initiate a 5-week residential Young Scholars project for 16 students in grades 11-12 in mathematical modeling. The focus of the program is acid deposition. Stressing the role of mathematical modeling, students use techniques of exploratory data analysis and linear regression to analyze National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) data. Groups of four use a computer and Minitab to construct a model for pH. Lectures, lab experiments, and field trips introduce students to sources of pollutants, chemistry of acid deposition and effects of acidification. During a two-day camp out near acid sensitive lakes, students inspect a NADP sampling station and the Little Rock acidification project. Using a VCR tape, students relate their summer experiences to classmates. School science instructors, and UW-Superior faculty assist students with a follow up research project.
