12th Grade  Lesson 50 minutes

Water Warriors: Dive Into Eco-Impact!

Kaden S
Updated
HS-LS2-7
HS-LS2-7
HS-ESS2-5
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Effective Communication
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to deepen students' understanding of human impacts on ecosystems through hands-on water quality testing. By engaging in a real-world lab, students will explore the physical, chemical, and biological consequences of human activities on aquatic environments. This project-based approach aims to develop critical thinking and effective communication skills while preparing students for topics covered in the AP Environmental Science exam.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of how human activities impact aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems through pollution. They will learn to collect and analyze water samples to assess water quality, including parameters like dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and phosphate levels. Students will engage in critical thinking to design solutions for reducing environmental impacts, while effectively communicating their findings and reflections during the lab.

Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS2-7 - Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS2-7 - Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
  • [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.
Competencies
  • 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.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.

Products

Students will create a detailed lab report documenting the results of their water quality testing, including measurements of dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and phosphate levels. They will also produce visual observations of the water samples, noting color and other physical characteristics. By the end of the lesson, students will present their findings and reflections on the implications of human impacts on aquatic ecosystems to their peers.

Launch

Begin the lesson by watching a short video that highlights the impacts of pollution on local ecosystems, emphasizing real-world examples. Follow this with a class discussion on the essential question about human activities and their consequences on ecosystems. Encourage students to share their thoughts and questions, setting the stage for the upcoming water quality testing lab where they will apply these concepts practically.

Exhibition

Students will present their lab findings to peers, showcasing their data on dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and phosphate levels. They will discuss the implications of their results on local ecosystems and human health, fostering an exchange of ideas and solutions. This exhibition will include a Q&A session where students can critically engage with each other's work, deepening their understanding through collaborative reflection.