Students outline on a topographical map the watershed in which they live. Through several investigations, students conclude that a watershed filters, absorbs, and stores water. Students observe examples of erosion and compaction on the school grounds. The class learns the importance of plants in erosion control. Students conduct library research to learn the effects of accelerated erosion on bodies of water and on aquatic organisms.
Students identify human activities that have affected the watershed in their community.
Students listen to the story Just a Dream and identify the central character's progress from environmental awareness to understanding to action. They listen to a story about Chico Mendes's efforts to protect the rain forest by promoting the harvesting of its products in a sustainable way. Students read about other environmental heroes, such as Carl Anthony, Rachel Carson, Aldo Leopold, Wangari Maathai, and Gaylord Nelson, whose actions have enhanced and protected the quality of the environment. Students identify and list human actions which enhance and protect the environment and locate information in the local news media which highlights people in their community who are caring for their environment. Pairs of students interview and present a certificate of appreciation to an environmental hero in their community.