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The Great Basin

In this unit, students will explore Nevada’s unique Great Basin ecosystem to learn about watersheds, wildlife, food chains, and geology. Students will complete mapping exercises, explore animal abilities through interactive stations, and create and share environmental models. This unit will also help students learn how to read maps, synthesize information, and think critically about the interconnections between organisms in an ecosystem.  

Hands-on Activities: 

  • Watershed models  
  • Animal ability stations and comparisons 
  • Food web string simulations and posters 
  • Mapping of landmarks, watersheds, and wildlife habitats 
  • Creation of informational pamphlets on Great Basin wildlife species  
  • Bats True or False trivia 
  • Great Basin show-box model and class presentations 

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

4-LS1-1 • 4-ESS2-2 • 5-ESS2-1 • 5-LS2-1 

English Language Arts Standards: 

W.4.2 • W.4.7 • SL.4.1 • SL.4.4 • W.5.2 • SL.5.1 • SL.5.4 

Mathematics Standards: 

MP.3  

Visual Arts Standards:

VA:Cr2.4.3 • VA:Cr2.4.1