All grades  Project 2 weeks

Water Wonders: Biology Splash!

Alycia E
HS-ESS2-5
HS-ESS2-5
ESS.2.C
2-ESS2-3
HS-LS2-3
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Purpose

This learning experience focuses on understanding the interplay between water properties and fossilization processes through active exploration and creative expression. By designing and executing investigations, students will gain a deeper grasp of geological and biological processes, honing their analytical and presentation skills. This hands-on project cultivates scientific inquiry and communication, inviting collaboration and community engagement.

Learning goals

Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the properties of water and their effects on Earth's surface processes, particularly focusing on fossil formation and exposure. They will learn to plan and conduct scientific investigations, examining the roles water plays in sediment erosion and mineral dissolution. Through hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, students will enhance their ability to construct evidence-based explanations of matter cycling in different environmental conditions. They will also develop skills in reflecting, presenting, and revising scientific ideas and artifacts within a community setting.

Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS2-5 - Plan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS2-5 - Plan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] ESS.2.C - The Roles of Water in Earth’s Surface Processes
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 2-ESS2-3 - Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS2-3 - Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for the cycling of matter and flow of energy in aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Products

Students will create and display a range of products throughout the project. They will construct detailed models of fossilization that illustrate the role of water in this process, accompanied by a written explanation. Using multimedia, students will compile video clips and photos to create a presentation that documents the Water & Fossils Adventure Day and their experimental processes. These products will be showcased during the 'Fossilized in Water' gallery walk event, engaging the community and fostering deeper understanding of the project's core concepts.

Launch

Kick off the project with an engaging 'Water & Fossils Adventure Day,' featuring diverse hands-on stations. Students will experiment with different materials to simulate fossil formation, observing water's impact on the process. This interactive launch will foster curiosity and create foundational experiences to build on throughout the project.

Exhibition

The 'Fossilized in Water' gallery walk invites students to exhibit their models and multimedia presentations on fossil formation influenced by water. Throughout the event, students present their work, engage in discussions, and answer questions from parents, peers, and community members. This interactive setting not only allows students to showcase their learning journey but also fosters a deeper community engagement with the scientific concepts explored throughout the project.