Build an Ecosystem (Science 3.5) - Using some empty, clear 2 liter bottles, the class will build an ecosystem with pond life at the bottom and land life on top.  The two exchange water and oxygen so the class can watch bugs crawling on the second floor and fish swimming in the basement.  The ecosystem can then be displayed in the classroom near a window for students to observe over time.

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The Incredible Journey (Science 3.7 and English 3.10, 11) - The water cycle and the importance of water conservation is discussed.  Students will take on the role of a water molecule and visit different stations which simulate the paths that water takes in the water cycle.  A specific color of bead is collected at each station and the students end up making a bracelet showing their incredible journey.

 

Letter from a Plastic Bag (Science 3.1, 6, 10) - Students will play a game pretending they are a plastic bag to see just what happens to this common form of litter. They will write a letter about their journey and discuss ways that they can help reduce litter on the Eastern Shore

 

Soil Studies (Science 3.1, 6, 7, 8)

1. What is soil? - Students will distinguish between soil and dirt.  They will then investigate clay, silt, and sandy soils to determine which soil particles are largest and smallest.

2. Why Is Soil Important? (also English 3.1, 6, 7, 8 and VA 3.6) First students participate in an interactive exploration of everyday items that come from the soil. We will also use an apple as a model to demonstrate how much soil is actually available for crops and discuss ways that farmers and people can help to conserve soil.  Students will then write a paragraph about the importance of soil.

3. Where does Soil Come From? - Students will learn about the different horizons of soil and how they contribute to supporting life on earth.  Using the soils mobile classroom, we will take a trip underground to see a replica of the soil horizons. When we return to the classroom students will create their own soil horizons in a tube.

4. Plant growth experiment (also Math 3.7) - Using three different soil types from the Eastern Shore and the Commonwealth, teachers and students will observe and record if there is a difference in plant growth based on the type of soil.  We will provide the resources for you to plan and conduct an investigation that determine how different types of soil affect plant growth.