BioBlitz Field Trip at the Historic Belmont:
Our students participated in the 2015 spring BioBlitz at the Historic Belmont Manor in Elkridge, Maryland. The purpose of this trip was for our students to collect data regarding the species found in the park. Students collected and identified organisms with the help of Smithsonian scientists, Howard County Bird Club members, and Master Naturalist volunteers. Student groups contributed to the community of citizen scientists by sharing their data on iNaturalist.org.
On the Way to the Bay Field Trip at the Howard County Conservancy:
Our students explored the Davis Branch Stream to collect and analyze chemical and biological data with the help of Maryland DNR Companion Guides. They had an opportunity to compare their stream data to other Maryland Streams. Students finish their experience with Chesapeake Bay geocaching to enhance their knowledge of local habitats.
After the field trip, students analyzed the number and types of macro-invertebrates collected in order to determine the overall biological water quality of the Davis Branch Stream. In addition, students analyzed the temperature, DO, pH, and TDS in order to determine the overall chemical water quality. This analysis of data allowed the students to construct meaning about the relationship between the abiotic and biotic factors in the ecosystem. Students reflected and committed to specific actions that could be taken to help improve the overall quality of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
After the field trip, students analyzed the number and types of macro-invertebrates collected in order to determine the overall biological water quality of the Davis Branch Stream. In addition, students analyzed the temperature, DO, pH, and TDS in order to determine the overall chemical water quality. This analysis of data allowed the students to construct meaning about the relationship between the abiotic and biotic factors in the ecosystem. Students reflected and committed to specific actions that could be taken to help improve the overall quality of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
- LS2.A Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
- LS2.C Ecosystem Dynamic, Functioning, and Resilience
- LS4.D Biodiversity and Humans
- ETS1.B Developing Possible Solutions
- Environmental Literacy Standard 1: Environmental Issues
7th Grade Research Project:
Spring 2016 and Spring 2017 - The 7th grade Student Service Learning project is titled #HoCoCleanH20. The purpose of this project is for the students to answer the Big Question: What actions can be taken to safeguard and improve water quality within our community that will positively impact human and ecological health? Student groups identify one problem faced by the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, and they research and collaborate to determine a solution to the problem. The final product is a student-created Public Service announcement, and the goal of the PSA is to motivate the Thomas Viaduct Middle School community to take one specific action to improve the quality of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.