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By
joining Project Search, high school teachers and students are provided
with new opportunities to understand the environment while engaging in
hands-on field research. At the Search workshop each summer, teachers are trained in data collection
and analysis in order to conduct water quality monitoring with their
students. Each school can borrow equipment to complete the field and
laboratory aspects of Project Search.
The Project Search curriculum was designed to be integrated into high school science classes. Search activities can be incorporated into biology, chemistry, and earth and environmental sciences. Alternatively, the Search curriculum can serve as the core for classes in ecology and environmental science. Also, several schools have included Search with their extracurricular environmental and/or ecology clubs.
Students measure water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, dissolved solids, hardness, alkalinity, nutrients, and bacteria levels in local streams. Benthic macroinvertebrates, which function as biological indicators, are collected and identified. Habitat assessments are also conducted, along with non-point source pollution surveys. All of these factors are then used by students to assess stream conditions. Each school implements only the testing procedures with which they feel confident. This helps to ensure the value of the data received from the students.
We will provide the necessary training for teachers to successfully implement Project Search in their classes. Search staff will support teachers and provide field assistance during the academic year. Search staff regularly attend site visits with each school. The attending staff member collects replicate chemical data and offers advice on techniques used during the field components. Staff will also visit schools for preparatory sessions or verification of macroinvertebrate identifications.
To join, contact Angela Rice, the Project Search coordinator, at angela.rice@ct.gov or (860) 424-3090.
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Page Last Updated 3/12/09
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