Ward's® AP Environmental Science: Yours, Mine, and Ores: A Study in Mining and Reclamation

Hands-on, standards-based lab kit that helps students examines the importance and environmental impacts of mining.

• Students balance manufacturing & industry needs with generated waste products

• Application: Simulating copper extraction and refining processes
• Activities include simulated electrowinning
• Students can perform activities independently or in groups
• Lab aligns with AP® environmental science topics I.A, IV.D, IV.E, V.C, VI.A, VI.B, and VI.C.
• Supports NGSS standards HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3-2
• Includes a teacher's guide and student copymasters

The mining of natural earth materials is essential to modern manufacturing, energy production, and countless industries that rely on these critical resources but mining operations can also generate waste and pollution that impact the environment. How do we balance these needs with responsible environmental management? With Ward’s AP® Environmental science: Yours, mine, and ores – A study in mining & reclamation, students explore this question through a series of engaging, hands-on investigations.

They model copper extraction methods from mine tailings and demonstrate an electrochemical refining process known as electrowinning. Students then work with actual copper mine tailings to test new reclamation methods, using biosolids in place of topsoil to restore habitat and reduce environmental damage. In a guided-inquiry activity, they apply their analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate the economic feasibility of developing a new coal mining operation.

Aligned with AP® Environmental science and NGSS standards, this comprehensive kit builds students’ data analysis and critical thinking skills while connecting chemistry, geology, and environmental science concepts to real-world challenges in sustainable resource management. Activities can be completed collectively or independently, offering flexibility for diverse classroom settings.

Ordering information: Purchase options for a single kit (designed for one lab station set up of three to four students) or classroom kit (designed for eight lab station setups of three to four students).