Determination of the mental models towards environmental pollution of primary school fourth grade students

The aim of this study was to determine the mental models of environmental pollution of elementary school students. Consistent with this purpose, a case study focusing on qualitative data has been conducted. Participants of this study consisted of 110 fourth-year students who are studying in two different primary schools, representing different socio-cultural spheres. Data collected using an interview form developed by the researcher. In the analysis of the data, the content analysis technique was used to analyze the data and the data were presented in tables separated by categories. Results of this study suggested that the socio-cultural environment in which students are located can be an effective factor in shaping children's mental models of environmental pollution. Keywords: environmental pollution, mental model, primary school students