Using a river or stream as a science laboratory provides a venue for students to ask important questions. When studying water quality, vegetation along the stream bank, or the geology of the rocks that line the water's edge, students have a vested interest in what they are learning. When they turn on the faucet in their kitchen and pour a glass of water they now think about what they are drinking. Where did it come from and where has it been? What is involved in the process of purification to make it safe and healthy to drink? What is the impact of the community in the quality of water in that glass?
Inquiry into real issues and the scientific research to support the questions and answers is the foundation of good education. The teacher’s role is to set the stage, provide the tools, and give permission for the time to think about what is important in their lives.
(Picture: Students in the NASA Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Aerospace Academy sponsored by Tennessee State University. Students are analyzing the rocks along the Harpeth River's edge June 2007 (see SEMAA website: SEMAAnashville.com).
Posted by Judy Butler
Click the comments button to share how you use research about water quality or other science topics with your students focusing on river themes.
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