This lesson plan was used with a group of under-achieving (30-40) high school students with the goal of instilling an interest in science. This was accomplished by addressing Earth Science SOL objectives that are activity based. The program involved two Earth Science teachers and one technology resource teacher, with activities centering on a meaningful watershed experience. We used Arcview software, Garmin eTrex GPS and PASCO Probeware. Students collected data on an ongoing project involving a watershed area behind the high school. They monitored water quality, collected GPS data points and tracks and constructed data using the Arcview software.
Science SOL's Addressed in Watershed Activity
SOL ES.1
The student will plan and conduct investigations in which
a) volume, area, mass, elapsed time, direction, temperature, pressure, distance, density, and changes in elevation/depth are calculated utilizing the most appropriate tools;
b) technologies including computers, probeware, and global positioning systems (GPS), are used to collect, analyze, and report data and to demonstrate concepts and simulate experimental conditions;
c) scales, diagrams, maps, charts, graphs, tables, and profiles are constructed and interpreted;
d) variables are manipulated with repeated trials; and
e) a scientific viewpoint is constructed and defended (the nature of science).
SOL ES.7
The student will investigate and understand the differences between renewable and nonrenewable resources. Key concepts include
c) resources found in Virginia;
d) making informed judgments related to resource use and its effects on Earth systems; and
e) environmental costs and benefits.
SOL ES.9
The student will investigate and understand how freshwater resources are influenced by geologic processes and the activities of humans. Key concepts include
e) dependence on freshwater resources and the effects of human usage on water quality; and
f) identification of the major watershed systems in Virginia including the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
SOL ES.11
The student will investigate and understand that oceans are complex, interactive physical, chemical, and biological systems and are subject to long- and short-term variations. Key concepts include
e) economic and public policy issues concerning the oceans and the coastal zone including the Chesapeake Bay.
Objectives:
Students will be able to
Identify the Chesapeake Bay watershed system.
Identify, on a map, the tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay.
Use GPS receivers to determine latitude and longitude of a specific waypoint.
Describe the impact of increased population on a watershed and tributary of the Chesapeake Bay.
Evaluate water quality data to determine the health of a stream.
Use appropriate technology, including probeware, to collect water quality data.
Use appropriate data analysis techniques, including graphs, spreadsheets, and data tables to display and analyze information.
Student lab: Water on the Move
NOTE:
The PASCO Lab "Water on the Move" was modified to use the Xplorer GLX Handheld, so that data can be collected , saved, and analyzed in the field. A computer is not needed in this instance.