Students use M&M's to create a pie graph that expresses their understanding of the composition of air. They watch and conduct several simple experiments to develop an understanding of the properties of air (it has mass, it takes up space, it can move, it exerts pressure, and it can do work). Students use the Air Quality Index (AQI) listed in the newspaper to develop awareness of the daily air quality. In an associated literacy activity, students explore the environmental history timeline.