Strict habitat requirements are needed for the survival of fish populations and fish variety in the Great Lakes. Young scientists become experts in the basic needs of fish and understand how survival necessities can vary with different...

Students investigate commercial fishing by exploring the technical methods.  In this environmental lesson, students identify the fish that are most commonly consumed by humans and trace their path from ocean to plate.  Students...

Seven pages of fascinating reading on marine debris preface the activities in this lesson plan. Four different activities are employed to simulate how the debris is distributed in the ocean and along beaches. Early ecology learners...

Sometimes science is puzzling. Using an online animation, individuals manipulate skeletal bones of an ancient species to recreate its skeleton. Learners complete the skeletal puzzle and learn about the process of paleontology in person...

Students explore biology by conducting a nature experiment. In this pond examination instructional activity, students utilize recycled materials, play-doh and water to recreate a pond and its inhabitants. Students identify the different...

Poor, misunderstood spiders! They are feared, disrespected, and detested by many people, yet they do so many positive things. A great addition to any insect unit, learn about some of the more common spiders, while hopefully dispelling...

Seventh graders discuss water issues and its affect on salmon population. They recreate a sampling river with fish (cheddar) and scoop them to tag them (which means they exchange them for pretzel fish.) They complete a spreadsheet to...

Students identify how humans, fish, plants, birds, insects and other wildlife benefit from wetland environments. They observe a wetland and its inhabitants, draw a migration map that represents how birds use wetlands in traveling long...

Students investigate the dangers Coral Reefs face by investigating satellite images.  In this environmental protection lesson, students utilize the Internet to discover the types of satellites and sensors used to provide...

Students study the 'Marine Protected Areas' process.  For this ocean lesson students work in groups, conduct research and present it to the class.

Pupils examine the major rivers in Northeast Florida and how they are useful. They study the St. John's River, its tributaries, and unique characteristics.

Learners research the economic importance of the major reservoirs in Illinois. In groups, they manage a budget for one of the lakes to promote tourism in the area. They also work together to create advertisements.

Students explore the importance of the Platte River to the state of Nebraska. They investigate the river's historical, social, economic, and political importance to the development of Nebraska. Students explore the ecosystem of the river.

Students participate in a virtual field trip to Lake Superior. In groups, they perform experiments in which test the level of toxins and bacteria in the water. They also watch video segments life in the lake and discuss their observations.