Thursday, June 7, 2012

Student Action Requested: 1-800-END-SMOG is only available in California

After we were excited to hear about the 1-800-END-SMOG program today in class, I am sad to say that I did some research and discovered that this program is NOT available in Illinois.  Maybe it is up to people like you to change this.

Currently, I'm trying to find out how one would go about reporting a vehicle that is donig excessive damage to our environment and the air that we breathe. 

Here is a little project for you:  call various organizations and find out where and how to file a smog complaint.  Some ideas include the EPA, the DMV of Illinois, dial 311 for city information, etc.  Include information about yourself, what school you go to, and why you think this is an important issue.  When you are educated, adults will take you more seriously. 

Another great resource would be our Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.  He is very concerned about the environment and may be interested in what you have to say.  His phone number is 312-814-2121.  Tell him your name, what school you go to, information abour your class, and (again) WHY you think this is an important issue.  I cannot stress enough- when you are educated and sound like you have "done your homework," adults will take you seriously.  PRACTICE what you are going to say before you call.Leave a comment with any helpful information.  Include details! Did you find out any phone numbers? Names of agencies? What information do you need to file a complaint? 




Let us see what we can dig up....

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Blog Rules- Your Electronic Signature REQUIRED!

Please read the following rules.  These will serve as a contract between you, your classmates, and me.  If you do not follow these rules, you could lose the right to be a member of this blogging group.  You may also lose computer privileges or be disciplined by the school.  If you do not understand any of these rules, please ask me.
When you finish reading, please provide an "electronic signature."   Follow these instructions:

Reply to this post by adding a comment. 
Type the following statement: "I undertand the rules and agree to follow them." - First name last initial.

1. I will never post any personal information.
2. I will use appropriate language.
3. I will not insult any of my classmates.
4. I will only post items that are meaningful and relevant to the current topic.
5. I will try to spell everything correctly.
6. I will not use "text speak."  (you NOT u, later NOT l8er, etc.)
7. I will only use this blog for science class.
8. I will not contact any people who I do not know personally, even though they may post to this blog.
9.  I will check this blog regularly and will be an active participant.

Practicing with with Blogger

Hi everyone!  This will be a learning process for all of us!  If you can read this, please post a comment and let me know if you were able to sign up to "follow" the blog.