RadTown Classroom Materials: Radiation Exposure

The RadTown Radiation Exposure activities are designed to help students understand the properties of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. With this understanding, students will be able identify sources of non-ionizing and ionizing radiation in our world. Students will also examine how they may be exposed to ionizing radiation, evaluate the benefits and risks associated with radiation exposure, and identify situations in which they may choose to control or limit their exposure to ionizing radiation. Students will also learn about the penetrating powers of different types of radiation and with this knowledge they can correct the myths associated with radiation exposure.

The links below provide background information for teachers, resource lists for student research, and detailed lesson plans with activities and worksheets. These activities are intended for use with middle school and high school students, but can be adapted as desired to fit individual classroom needs.

• Teacher Information
• Vocabulary Activities
• Activity 1: Types of Radiation
• Activity 2: Sources of Annual Radiation Exposure
• Activity 3: Penetrating Powers of Ionizing Radiation
• Activity 4: Exposure Pathways
• Activity 5: Radiation Health Effects
• Activity 6: Acute versus Chronic Exposure
• Activity 7: Radiation: Fact or Fiction