Environmental Education
macroinvertebrates
Grade: 6
Duration: 55-60 minutes
Location: Home/Backyard/Park
Materials:
● Macroinvertebrate ID Guide
● Journals/Paper
● Markers/Colored Pencils
● Clay/Playdough (optional)
● Pipe Cleaners/cotton swabs, sticks/etc. (optional)
● Pasta noodles (optional)
● Glue (optional)
● 1-2 Dice (optional)
Lesson Preparation:
● Print out or have the Macroinvertebrate ID Guide, Worksheet, and Simulation available on a computer/tablet.
● Print and cut out macroinvertebrate names for lesson use. Put it aside for the lesson.
● Ensure paper and writing materials are available for the students.
● Have crafting materials set up and available
Objectives: Students will
● Identify two important roles macroinvertebrates play in an ecosystem by discussing their ideas.
● Present the natural history of a macroinvertebrate species by sharing information they recorded in their journals.
● Determine water quality by running a stream simulation with macroinvertebrate species
● Brainstorm two ways humans can improve or preserve the local water quality
