5th Grade  Project 6 weeks

Ecosystem Explorers: Dioramas to Water Warriors!

Amy C
5-ESS3-1
5-ESS2-2
5-ESS2-1
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project aims to immerse 5th-grade students in hands-on, real-world learning experiences that deepen their understanding of ecosystems and the interconnectedness of life and earth systems. By engaging in activities such as creating dioramas, designing water filters, and developing PSAs, students will explore the impact of human activities on the environment and devise actionable steps to conserve resources. The project encourages critical thinking, self-directed learning, and community engagement, fostering a sense of responsibility and belonging as students work collaboratively to address global water scarcity and environmental sustainability.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of ecosystems, focusing on how unique characteristics influence organism survival and behavior. They will explore the water cycle's impact on ecosystems and its connection to global water scarcity, designing and testing solutions for clean water access. Through research, technology use, and community engagement, students will enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. They will also reflect on human impacts on ecosystems and identify responsible actions to protect and sustain these environments.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 5-ESS3-1 - Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth's resources and environment.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 5-ESS2-2 - Describe and graph the amounts and percentages of water and fresh water in various reservoirs to provide evidence about the distribution of water on Earth.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 5-ESS2-1 - Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create dioramas to visually represent the ecosystems they study, highlighting the interactions between the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. They will design and build functional water filters, demonstrating their understanding of water purification processes and the importance of clean water access. The project will culminate in the production of a PSA video or animated skit, where students will convey essential information about ecosystems and water conservation, incorporating a QR code linking to a chosen organization for further action.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a dynamic field trip to a local nature reserve where students can explore native Hawaiian plants and animals firsthand. During the hike, students will participate in a scavenger hunt to identify different species and their roles within the ecosystem. This immersive experience will serve as a foundation for understanding ecosystems and the interconnectedness of life, setting the stage for their project work.

Exhibition

Students will participate in an Ecosystem Showcase, presenting their dioramas and water filter projects in a science fair format to peers from different grade levels. Additionally, a Real World Learning Showcase will invite families and community members to explore the students' work, encouraging dialogue about ecosystem diversity and water conservation solutions. During the exhibition, students will present their PSA videos, sharing their insights and proposed actions for addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable practices.