Grade 3 - Rivers to the Sea and Back Again
SUMMARY
A 7-9 Week Science Unit for Intermediate Level
This unit is designed for 3rd grade, but could be adapted to other grades. Students develop knowledge of watersheds and the water cycle, as well as knowledge of the life cycle of salmon and the needs of salmon as they relate to watersheds. Activities include stories, discussion, a “crumpled-paper” watershed activity, a water cycle simulation game, collaborative research, and a field trip to a local water body to assess its potential to support salmon. Finally, students create and demonstrate a model of a healthy watershed. Language arts and art are incorporated into the unit, as are science notebooks.
Essential Questions
- How are we connected to wetlands, rivers and the sea?
- What is the salmon’s life journey through the wetlands, rivers and the sea?
- Where does our local water come from and where does it go?
Enduring Understandings
- Watersheds, rivers, wetlands, and the one big ocean of the world are an interconnected system.
- Salmon depend on the rivers and the ocean during parts of their life cycle.
- Science is a way to answer questions about the world around us.
Ocean Literacy Principles Addressed
- The Earth has one big ocean with many features.
- The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.
- The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.
LESSON PLANS
Where does my water come from?
After listening to a story about a river, students are introduced to watersheds by simulating a watershed with crumpled paper, ink, and water. They investigate the sources of home drinking water in their community, through home inquiry and an actual or virtual field trip.
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Dirty Water Clean Water
Students learn about water pollution and wastewater treatment through a visit from a local “expert,” and make posters or presentations to share and clarify their understanding.
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Location: Classroom
Activity Type: Field Trip, Project
Water Cycle Simulation
Students take part in a simulation of water moving through the water cycle through various paths, visiting eight stations around the classroom. They record and reflect on their journey and then build simple water cycle models using ziplock bags or jars.
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A Salmon’s Life Journey
Students explore the salmon life cycle and watershed connections, using cards to generate questions. They research, gather evidence, and share findings through cooperative work and poster presentations.
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Fish Finders
Students explore the needs of salmon at each stage of their life cycle, and then go into the field to investigate a local aquatic habitat and its potential as salmon habitat. NGSS-aligned Fish Finders investigation.
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Make Your Own Watershed
Students explore the salmon life cycle and watershed connections, using cards to generate questions. They research, gather evidence, and share findings through cooperative work and poster presentations.
View Lesson PlanAUTHORS
Tom McKenna, Teacher, Juneau, Alaska
Terry Slaven, Teacher, Wasilla, Alaska
Jennifer Wardes, Teacher, Kasilof, Alaska
Marilyn Sigman, Scientist, Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, Homer, Alaska
Stephanie Hoag, Curriculum Consultant, Juneau, Alaska
Marla Brownlee, Alaska Sea Grant