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This The Marvels of Mud lesson plan also includes:
- Lab & Experiment
- Worksheet
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Young scientists roll up their sleeves and get a little dirty in this three-day earth science investigation. Following the scientific method, children monitor the growth of algae in pond water samples in order to determine the role that sediment plays in supporting life in aquatic ecosystems.
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CCSS:
Adaptable
Concepts
soil, soil composition, soil types, abiotic factors, ecosystems, sediment, wetland ecosystems, biotic factors, nutrients, the nutrient cycle, the scientific method, algae, plant growth, aquatic plants, phosphorus, experimental design, controlled variable, control groups, controlled experiments, hypotheses, unicellular organisms, microorganisms
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Instructional Ideas
- Integrate this investigation into an upper-elementary earth science unit on aquatic ecosystems
- Have students count other microorganisms as well as the algae, looking for patterns in the amount of plant and animal life they observed
Classroom Considerations
- Plan a field trip to a local pond, lake, river, or stream to collect mud samples and investigate local ecosystems
- A class set of microscopes and other scientific materials are required for this investigation, so be sure to plan accordingly
Pros
- Offers suggestions for extending learning about sediment and aquatic ecosystems
- A series of worksheets are provided that walk students through the steps of the scientific process
Cons
- None