The purpose of this project-based learning experience is to engage 4th-grade students in understanding the impact of human activities on natural resources and ecosystems through hands-on activities and real-world applications. By exploring concepts like pollution, sustainable agriculture, and natural disasters, students develop critical thinking skills and propose actionable solutions to environmental challenges. This approach fosters a deeper connection to the material, encouraging students to apply their knowledge to promote environmental stewardship and responsible consumption in their communities.

Students will investigate the causes and effects of pollution on ecosystems, developing practical solutions for environmental stewardship. They will explore the impact of human activities on natural resources and propose sustainable practices, such as regrowing food and creating eco-friendly products. Through hands-on activities and community engagement, students will deepen their understanding of ecosystem health, pollution prevention, and responsible consumption. They will enhance their scientific inquiry skills by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting their findings in a community exhibition.

Throughout the learning experience, students will create several tangible products that demonstrate their understanding and application of environmental concepts. These include a mind map of pollution and solid waste, an ecosystem-in-a-bottle project, and a persuasive letter advocating for sustainable food choices. By the end of the project, students will showcase their regrown food plants and present their findings at a community exhibition, explaining the environmental benefits and sustainable practices they have learned. Additionally, students will produce "My Healthy Plate" posters to promote nutrition awareness and local food systems.

Kick off the learning experience with an engaging simulation of Freddie the Fish's journey downstream. In this activity, students work in groups with a reusable plastic bowl and a sponge fish, adding various "pollutants" to Freddie's water as they read task cards detailing his journey. This interactive experience prompts students to observe changes in the water, discuss Freddie's condition, and brainstorm actionable solutions to pollution, setting the tone for their exploration of environmental stewardship.

Organize a community exhibition where students present their ecosystem-in-a-bottle projects, showcasing the environmental concepts they explored. Invite local environmental organizations and community members to engage with the students, providing feedback and insights. Students can also display their air pollution jelly investigation results and regrow-your-food experiments, demonstrating their understanding of sustainable practices. This exhibition allows students to articulate their learning and encourages community involvement in environmental stewardship.