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Earthworks
Earth System Science for Secondary Teachers
Earth Science/Ecology/Environmental Classes at New Britain High School
What: I will include our study (or modification) into an existing interdistrict
project that is studying the geology, water, soil, and biodiversity
of the Metacomet Ridge that runs North-South through Connecticut.
The existing grant's objective is to promote interactions between
inner city and suburban school students. A further objective is to
have students learn how to do authentic science studies in the field.
Where: This study will take place on the Metacomet Ridge between Southington and New Britain.
When: The study will be done throughout the 2000-2001 school year.
Why: Students must learn to interact with each other in our diverse society. Part of this project is to start the school year with diversity training for the students. The students learn the protocols for data collection at the school sites and then the schools get together to work on the data collection at the school sites and then the schools get together to work on the data collection at each other's sites. By working on a common project we are hoping to change misconceptions and perceptions of our students. The students will also learn science applications: GPS, GIS, water quality testing, aquatic animal identification, journal writing, data collection techniques, data analysis, and transferring of knowledge in an effort to understand earth systems interactions.
How: Students will meet to take data at sites on the Metacomet Ridge. Each student will cycle through:
1. GPS, site plot set up and canopy and ground cover identification
2. Water quality testing
3. Soil testing and identification
4. Aquatic animal identification (if there are no streams on the site, then Vernal Pools).
Using Globe protocols, data will be collected and entered into the Meta comet Ridge Home Page.Data can then be analyzed at the home school and presented at the end of the year meeting.
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Joe Bosco (Earthworks 2000)