Project: Water: Systems, States, and Solutions
Guided Discovery
Students completed research on the local watershed, attending a field trip to sample and test water on the Merrimack River, and had visitors from the Merrimack River Watershed Council present on related topics (erosion, water pollution).
Investigation/Research
Students completed online research within classes and read a number of sources related to the local watershed. Students asked questions to researchers and local experts on both the field trip and visitor presentations.
Solution
Students developed PSA’s, trifold poster presentations, slideshows, and informational placards to present to the public.
Community Impacts
Students successfully increased awareness within the broader school community (students, staff, and families).
SEL Competencies
Relationship Skills
Social Emotional Learning
Habits of Discussion, Giving and receiving feedback, Developing multiple solutions and selecting one
District Name
Community Day Public Charter Schools
School Name
Community Day Charter Public School
Class/Program
5th grade science
Number of Teachers
4
Number of Students
120
Grade Level(s)
PK-5
Duration/Intensity
November through December 2023; 8 weeks, 5x60min/week
Community Partners
UMass Lowell (Smart & Connected Communities for Cleanwater), Merrimack River Watershed Council, Tsongas Industrial History Center
Content Areas
English Language Arts & Literacy;Science & Technology Engineering;
Skills or Knowledge Learned
Students studied the grade 5 science frameworks around the water cycle (ESS2.1 & ESS.2.2) states of matter (PS.1.1) and water filtration (ESS.3.2) as well as community impact (ESS.3.1).