For Younger Students Draw a picture of a wetland and explain what you draw. Name three reasons why wetlands are important. Wetlands are sometimes called nurseries because so many young animals grow up in them. Name some animals that spend part of their lives in wetlands. For Older Students Explain why wetlands are called one of the world's most productive ecosystems.
Wetlands are important to a range of organisms in the animal kingdom, from zoo plankton to humans.
Select five species of animals and describe how wetlands are important to each. Personally visit a wetland to verify the appropriateness of the metaphors explored in the classroom. Identify and discuss any limitations to the appropriateness of these metaphors. Identify what seem to be the most compelling attributes of the metaphors in helping you understand the characteristics and nature of the wetland. Expand on your understanding of these metaphors.