Wetland Management: Curriculum Module

A CASE STUDY
IN
WETLAND MANAGEMENT

BY
Barbara B. Ducote

Summary:
A simulation in which students will develop skills in research, analyzes, evaluation of data, and predictions of future events.

Picture of Wetlands in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana

Connection to the Curriculum:
This is an interactive module which encompasses Language Arts, Math, and Speech and Drama.

Season:
Any time of year.

Time:
2 - 3 weeks

Objectives:
1. The student will use critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions by:

analyzing, reviewing, and critiquing hypothesis and theories as to their strengths and weaknesses using scientific evidence and information.

draw inferences based on data related to promotional materials for products and services.

evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.

2. The student uses scientific methods during investigations to:

organize, analyze, evaluate, make inferences, and predict trends from direct and indirect evidence.

communicate valid conclusions.

construct graphs, tables, and charts using tools including computers to organize, examine, and evaluate date.

Procedure:
Students must have prior knowledge of computers, web searches, and introduction of ecology.

Present "To Save or Not to Save" to students. Have them read carefully. Elaborate if you wish. Answer any questions about story students have. (If you wish to enhance story, go ahead. Students will trigger ways to improve story)

Explain criteria and rubric to students. Set time line. (This is flexible)

Sample criteria and time line

research - 4 class periods

rough draft - 4 class periods

final copy - 2 class periods

class presentations - 5 class periods.

Be prepared to help students find materials during research stage.

TEKS:
7.3A,B,D,F

Evaluation:
By Rubric

Resources:
A place to start your web search

Region 4 EPA - Home page
http://www.epa.gov/docs/Region4wet/wetlands.html

*Selected law cases
*environmental law
*section 401 of the clean water act

The Louisiana Coastal Wetlands, Planning, Protection, & Restoration Act
http://www.sgi.ursus.maine

Wetland Assistance Guide for Landowners
http://bb35.tpwd.state.tx.us/nature/wetlands/wetintro.htm#contents

U.S. Geological Survey
http://h20.usgs.gov/public

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