Students will stencil an educational message next to curbs above storm drains to raise awareness about water pollution prevention. The project connects students to their local environment and improves their understanding of watersheds, ecosystem connectivity, and the role of city government in protecting the environment. Students demonstrate how stormwater carries pollutants directly into nearby water ways.
This investigation allows students an opportunity to share their thinking. First, they practice in the classroom and then share their thinking and work as part of a classroom and/or whole school celebration of the Alaska Seas and Watersheds Curriculum.
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.
Students investigate how polar and tropical climates influence ocean currents by conducting an experiment with hot and cold water to observe density-driven movement.
Over 4–5 days, students prepare for and complete a field trip to apply skills from the sea otter mystery. Activities may include ecosystem mapping, a stream walk, or a coast survey. Back in class, they analyze and share their findings.