Through field experience, and correspondence with an ecologist, students will be able to collect and analyze samples of water from a local stream and determine its overall wellness using different water quality investigations.

Scientists rely on technology to enhance the gathering and manipulation of data. New techniques and tools provide new evidence to guide inquiry and new methods to gather data, thereby contributing to the advance of science. The accuracy and precision of the data, and therefore the quality of the exploration, depends on the technology used. Technology productivity tools Use technology tools and resources for managing and communicating personal/professional information (e.g., finances, schedules, addresses, purchases, correspondence). Investigate and apply expert systems, intelligent agents, and simulations in real-world situations. Technology communication tools Use technology tools and resources for managing and communicating personal/professional information (e.g., finances, schedules, addresses, purchases, correspondence). Routinely and efficiently use online information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications, communications, and productivity. Select and apply technology tools for research, information analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making in content learning.

Standard 1 Accesses information efficiently and effectively, as described by the following indicators: 1.recognizes the need for information: 2.recognizes that accurate and comprehensive information is the basis for intelligent decision making; 3.formulates questions based on information needs; 4.identifies a variety of potential sources of information; 5.develops and uses successful strategies for locating information. Standard 2: Evaluates information critically and competently, as described by the following indicators: 1.determines accuracy, relevance, and comprehensiveness; 2.distinguishes among facts, point of view, and opinion; 3.identifies inaccurate and misleading information; 4.selects information appropriate to the problem or question at hand. Standard 3: Uses information effectively and creatively, as described by the following indicators: 1.organizes information for practical application; 2.integrates new information into one's own knowledge; 3.applies information in critical thinking and problem solving; 4.produces and communication information and ideas in appropriate formats. Standard 7: Recognizes the importance of information to a democratic society, as described by the following indicators: 1.seeks information from diverse sources, contexts, disciplines, and cultures; 2.respects the principle of equitable access to information. Standard 8 Practices ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology, as described by the following indicators: 1.respects the principles of intellectual freedom; 2.respects intellectual property rights; 3.uses information technology responsibly. Standard 9: Participates effectively in groups to pursue and generate information, as described by the following indicators: 1.shares knowledge and information with others; 2.respects others' ideas and backgrounds and acknowledges their contributions; 3.collaborates with others, both in person and through technologies, to identify information problems and to seek their solutions; 4.collaborates with others, both in person and through technologies, to design, develop, and evaluate information products and solutions.

Students will develop an appreciation for the environment and how an ecosystem works. Students will see the impact that humans can have on their environment. Students will develop an understanding of how a watershed works and the importance of being environmentally conscious people.

Students will be assessed by science fair standards.

Lesson 1 Water sampling using test kits Lesson 2 Identification of macroinverebrates Lesson 3 Data Analysis and Statistics

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How Do Benthic Macroinvertebrates Determine the Health of a Stream?