River Ecology-
Post-site Activities/Teacher
Led
Grade:
3
Content Area: Science
Time
to Complete: 1.5 hours
Title of Lesson: Rivers of South Carolina
South Carolina State Standards Addressed:
|
I.A.1.a |
Use the senses
and simple tools to gather information about objects or events
such as size, shape, color, texture, sound, position and change
(qualitative observations). |
|
I.A.4.a |
Use drawings,
tables, graphs, written and oral language to describe objects and
explain ideas and actions. |
|
(T)II. A.1.a |
Organisms can
survive only in habitats in which their needs can be met. Compare
and contrast the basic needs of plants and animals. |
|
(T)II. A.1.b |
Organisms can
survive only in habitats in which their needs can be met. Select and
describe an appropriate habitat for a plant or animal. |
Lesson Description:
Students will conduct a survey of the river or other aquatic
habitat (pond, water garden, lake, etc.) to determine the
organisms that live in an aquatic habitat and how they are
adapted for their environment. Organisms observed and abiotic
characteristics (water temperature, flow, clarity) can be
used to describe the aquatic habitat.
Focus Questions For Students:
| 1. |
In what
region of SC is this river (aquatic habitat) found? |
| 2. |
What types of plants and animals would you expect to find
in the river (aquatic) habitat? |
| 3. |
Where would you expect to find animals in the river (aquatic)
habitat? Why? |
| 4. |
What are the main habitat requirements for this river (aquatic)habitat? |
| 5. |
How are plants and animals adapted for life in a river (aquatic)
habitat? |
Culminating Assessment:
Compare
and contrast the river (aquatic) habitat surveyed with the
Middle Saluda River.
Materials/Equipment/Resources:
pencil/paper
River Survey Sheet (Optional)
Teacher Preparation:
|
1. |
Choose a study
site (river, pond, water garden, etc.) for your students. |
|
2. |
Research
background information about river(s) that will
be surveyed
and be prepared discuss possible reasons for why plants and
animals are located
in certain areas (surface, bottom, bank, etc.). |
|
3. |
Make copies of
River Survey Form. (Optional) |
Procedures:
|
1. |
Review with students that plants and animals can survive only in
habitats in which their needs can be met. |
|
2. |
Review with students the habitat requirements for river (aquatic)
plants and animals. |
|
3. |
Students will make observations of the study site including what
plants and animals use the area as a habitat. |
|
4. |
Students will make observations quantitative or qualitative about
the abiotic conditions of the study site. |
|
5. |
Discuss with students similarities and differences between the
Middle Saluda River and their study site. |
|
