Sagehen Study: Watershed Dynamics

In this unit, students will learn about watersheds, water quality, and the impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems and wildlife health in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Students will investigate and construct models, test water samples, compile data on indicator species, and create a clay caddis fly casing. This unit will also help students learn how to think critically, analyze data, construct explanations, and support claims with evidence. 

Hands-on Activities: 

• Watershed model building and investigation 
• Watershed structures drawing and revision 
• Water sample testing, categorization, and map location determination 
• Trichoptera species data compilation and chart creation 
• Caddis fly casing clay model  
• Creation of Canva informational poster on climate change impacts to spring ecosystems 

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

MS-ESS2-4 • MS-ESS3-1 • MS-LS2-1 • MS-LS2-2 • MS-LS2-5. 

Visual Arts Standards:

VA:Cr1.8.1 • VA:Cr2.8.1 • VA:Cr2.7.2 • VA:Cr2.7.3