Fourth Graders Explore Water Quality and Macroinvertebrates at Black Rock Forest
How can we get over 90 highly inquisitive and energetic 4th graders excited to evaluate ways of interpreting if an ecosystem is healthy? Through offering an experiential learning opportunity at Black Rock Forest!
The rich biodiversity there amply and fully engaged the awe of our young students during their pursuit of investigating stream ecosystem health. Not only are the natural resources breathtaking, but the educational staff helped to support our powerful learning experiences that will hopefully be remembered by our 4th graders with fondness in years to come.
Students collected data by measuring air and stream temperatures and conducting water chemistry tests to learn the pH levels and dissolved oxygen concentrations of the stream water. They also collected, counted, and identified macroinvertebrates and discovered how macroinvertebrates are bioindicators for the stream ecosystem. In addition to completing fieldwork, the students participated in a hike which included a mindfulness break surrounded by stunning views.
Story and photos submitted by Dalton Science Teachers, Kate Fenner and Alicia Reid