As fires burn the landscape, they spew airborne gases and particles, though their impact on air pollution might be underestimated. A study in ACS’ Environmental Science & Technology reports that, around the world, wildfires and prescribed burns (i.e., wildland fires) could emit substantially more gases, including ones that contribute to air pollution, than previously thought. The researchers identified several regions with high wildland fire and human activity emissions, which may pose complex air-quality challenges.

Can rating be more than a warm-up activity in classroom assessments? A new Hong Kong study reveals that the accuracy with which students rate their own and their peers’ writing significantly shapes the quality of feedback, the depth of revision, and ultimately the improvement of their writing performance. The research challenges the common perception and instead shows its essential role in driving meaningful learning outcomes.