1. Endangered Species & Conservation
Activity and Project Suggestions
M/H Life without Trees (RiverDeep Current – September 14, 2000) – Increasing development destroys nature’s “vacuum cleaners.” Written for students. Questions and resources provided.
E/M The Rainforest Connection – a wonderful site where students joined scientists on their journey through one of the world’s rainforests…plus more! Even if there isn’t a trip for the current year, there is much to do with the past entries. Be sure to check out the teacher tips on how to use the Rainforest Connection.
E Rainforest Heroes – Video, lessons and action toolkit for protecting the rainforest and indigenous societies.
E/M Tropical Biology in Costa Rica – a join in journey with assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Rebecca Kapley and a group of college students as they embarked on an educational journey deep into the heart of tropical rainforests. Still good for exploring after the fact.
M/H Visit the Wetlands (RiverDeep Current – July 23, 2001) – Your students take a virtual field trip to explore the wetlands and hear the debate over wetlands conservation.
Collaboratives
E/M Down the Drain-for grades 4-8, but any age can participate. This Internet-based collaborative project allows students to share information about water usage with other students from around the country and the world. Based on data collected by their household members and their classmates, students will determine the average amount of water used by one person in a day. They will compare this to the average amount of water used per person per day in other parts of the world.
H The Global Water Sampling Project: An Investigation of Water Quality – From March 27 until June 2, 2006 (new dates each year). This is an ongoing well established program. Students will team up around the globe to test fresh water. Join in this collaborative project, comparing the water quality of your local river, stream, lake or pond with other fresh water sources around the world.
M Take a Dip. The Water in Our Lives-Join students around the world in this Environmental Collaborative Project and team up to test the quality and research the cultural significance of fresh water. From September 12 – December 2, 2005 (new dates each year). Well-established, ongoing project. You will have the opportunity to compare the water quality of your local river, stream, lake or pond and the stories and practices dealing with water in your community with other fresh water sources around the world. The focus of the project is to assess water quality based on physical characteristics and chemical substances.
Lesson Plans for Offline Use
E/M Rainforest Action Network -Â Lesson plans, climate action curriculum, action plans and youth-focused blog
E The Groundwater Foundation On-line Catalog – Download lessons, materials and publications that make learning tabout groundwater fun and understandable for kids and adults alike. Also offers materials for independent student use.