All Estuary-Net activities contain objectives, assessments, time needed, materials, procedures,and hypotheses. Level I activities do not include a field sampling component, but provides classes with a hands-on, inquiry experience that explores the habitat variables tested in later levels. Students use appropriate tools and techniques to gather, analyze, and interpret water quality data in their classroom. In addition, these variables are investigated using current data available at this web site. In these activities, students use telecommunications for collaborative problem-solving.
Students relate their data to problems that exist in their local watershed.
Level II activities focus on the development of a watershed map and a water sampling plan. These activities provide a format for conducting a reconnaissance of the area, and a stream survey. Students study the relationship between upstream influences in their watershed and their watershed's estuary. They identify the information needed and the resources necessary to address a potential watershed question. Students use USGS topographic maps to create their own watershed map of their local area which identifies watershed and access points to those water sheds.