Stream Side Science uses hands on stream monitoring techniques to teach middle- and high-school students about water pollution and water functions, but can be adapted to effectively to teach grades 5-12.
The lesson plans cover science, management, and policy aspects of water science and water quality. Because the curriculum engages students directly in their local watersheds, they also learn about stewardship through service and community outreach programs. The curriculum is not currently aligned to national standards.
The entire curriculum is built around experiential approaches. In most of the lessons, students use data collected at local water bodies to increase their understanding of water chemistry, aquatic biology, watershed functions and water policy. Lessons include background information and a "Frequently Asked Questions" section which teachers often use to guide their classroom discussions. Most lesson plans include data summary or graphing, and opportunities to discuss and interpret the results.
Since 2004, more than 1,300 educators have attended one of our training workshops. Our workshops always include a session on watershed and water quality science and policy (Watershed 101), time in the field where the teachers learn the different techniques, and wrap up with reflection and synthesis, with the teachers modeling lesson plans, discussing how these can be used in different settings, etc.
Stream Side Science Lesson Manual I Training Opportunities I Supplemental Material
Stream Side Science: Hands-on Water Education that Makes a Difference (poster, article)
Powerpoint Presentations:
Photo Tour of Stream Side Science Activities