RiverWatch Lesson Planning

What would teaching RiverWatch Science look like according to the Learning Cycle? The Learning Cycle is a particularly good curriculum model for the development of quality science experiences.

The Learning Cycle

In all the preparations for a RiverWatch Science Trip, there is one overriding question to keep in mind. Students should be presented with this question; reminded of this question; and use this question as the basis of their field trip report…

"Is this river healthy?"

Click here for a diagram of the Learning Cycle

LESSON	LEARNING CYCLE	ACTIVITIES
One	Engage	Drop in a Bucket Demo and TasteTest Challenge
Two	Explore	Testing Aquarium and Other Water Samples
Three	Explain	Define "good quality drinking water" and "healthy rivers"
Four	Extend	Awareness and Personal Action Surveys Prepare to Monitor River Health Participate on a RiverWatch Trip
Five	Exchange	Data entry and chart analysis Report preparation and presentation
Six	Evaluate	Submit feedback on the trip and web site Re-take Awareness and Personal Action Surveys