Science, Collaboration, Data Collection

Water Quality Probes, Google Earth, Digital Cameras, Google Docs,

A Science unit on ecology and the environment includes sampling water from a variety of streams for levels (PH, Dissolved Oxygen and Turbidity) before and after a spring rain. Each team will use water quality probes to collect the data on the streams. This data will be shared with all teams. Students will then analyze the information and explain what affects this watershed would have on the life in the area. Students will propose ideas to repair or keep the stream healthy.
Procedure:
1) Teams will be instructed on appropriate use of the water quality probes.
2) Each team will take the probes to the stream or water shed and collect samples from different points on the water shed.
3) Each team will use digital cameras or cell phones to take pictures of the position of the sample.
4) Each team will download their results to the computer
5) Each team will place the position of their sample on Google Earth Pro
6) Each team will use all collected data and the markers on Google Earth Pro to analyze the information.
7) Each team use Google Docs to collaboratively prepare a presentation to the class of their findings and proposal
8) Each team will do a Google Presentation of their findings to the class to be reviewed by the county DNR Naturalist

Essential Skills: T: Apply Digital Tools to gather, evaluate and use information. S: Apply and understand ways to help take care for the environment , Use tools to gather data and extend the senses. L: Incorporates technology as a tool to enhance writing, Uses writing as a tool for learning. E: Communicate and work productively with others, incorporating different perspectives and cross cultural understanding, to increase innovation and the quality of work.