Students use Google Earth to compare forests that have been logged selectively with those that have not. For an outdoor activity, students create a comprehensive list of all the tree species in their study area.
In this lesson plan, students address the impact of unsustainable fishing practices, as applied to the case of salmon fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. In session 1, they simulate variation in nutrient input by comparing growth of plants with different concentrations of fish-based fertilizer control. In session 2, students test a simple, computer-based interactive population model to estimate sustainable salmon harvest. Extra sessions will be needed to conduct some of the extend options.
Themes:
Forests provide many benefits, including net production of oxygen.
In this lesson plan, students look at different ways to protect coastlines. Students first use an online tool to find historic tide data in a selected coastal location: The Gulf Coast of the United States. Then students use a hands-on model to explore the use of different materials in protecting coastlines. As they progress, students learn how and why oyster reefs are being used to protect the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico. In this STEM lesson, students will get the opportunity to practice and learn across a wide range of disciplines.
In this lesson plan, students look at different ways to protect coastlines. Students first use an online tool to find historic tide data in a selected coastal location: The Gulf Coast of the United States. Then students use a hands-on model to explore the use of different materials in protecting coastlines. As they progress, students learn how and why oyster reefs are being used to protect the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico. In this STEM lesson, students will get the opportunity to practice and learn across a wide range of disciplines.
On this virtual field trip, we’ll first travel to the lush, rain-soaked splendor of the Olympic Peninsula and explore the urban watershed of Seattle. The abundant rainfall here provides plenty of water, but keeping it clean and safe can be a challenge. Next, we’ll head to Arizona’s dry, desert landscape and take a tour of the Verde River, one source of water that nourishes this parched land. Here, people and other living things must adapt to a limited water supply, yet sudden and violent storms can dump seven inches of rain in a single night! Join The Nature Conservancy's water scientist Kari Vigerstol on this virtual field trip to find out how geography, people, and water interact in two of America’s “wildly” unique biomes.
