Modeling the Floating
Wetland
Lesson 2:
Complete the slides in order. When you see a pencil icon,
There is a task to complete or a question to answer.
How does the floating wetland work?
In our last lesson we were introduced to the existing floating wetland in the Charles
River. On the next slide, you will see a photo of the floating wetland and an illustration of
the wetland.
Use the images to help you draw a model of the floating wetland in your science
notebook.
Then label the parts of the wetland on your model and what those parts might do. (you
can refer to work form our last lesson to help you)
A Working Floating Wetland Model
In our groups, we are going to build a model of the
floating wetland.
Check the image for materials we are going to need.
Part 1 Growing the
Floating Wetland Plants
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Place a sponge in the clear bowl.
Lay wheat grass seeds in a single layer like in
the top image.
Spray with water. You seeds need a good
amount of water.
Sketch your model in your science notebook.
(be sure to include the date)
Cover with a wet paper towel as in the
bottom image.
Check model daily, and be sure to water if
necessary.
Growth!
In a few days, you should see some roots emerging
from the seeds; remove the paper towel at that
point. Your seeds will now need some light.
In another few days you will see some green grass!
We will sketch our models periodically as
determined by your teacher.
Adding the Daphnia
Click the image to see Daphnia up close.
Why are they important to include in our floating
wetland models?
Part 2: Daphnia and Your Floating Wetland
Once your floating wetland has exposed roots in the water, it is time to add daphnia. You
will add 10-20 ml from the daphnia tank to your floating wetland.
Observe your tank for 3-5 minutes. Using a combination of words and pictures, record
your observations in your science notebook. (Hint: What are the parts of the system?
What is the job of each part?)
Part 3: Using the model in an experiment.
Now that we have a complete floating wetland model, we can use it to investigate
different environmental conditions.
Think about all we have learned about the Charles River and ecosystems. (There is a lot!
You may want to look through your science notebook to remind yourself!)
What kind of questions could we investigate using your floating wetland model to
simulate environmental conditions?
We will record ideas as a class. Your teacher will give final approval.
Investigation Design
In your groups, collaborate on the following
What question will your group investigate?
What procedures will you follow?
What data will you collect and how will you organize it?
Record your ideas in your science notebook.
Make an Evidence Based Claim
Claim: (answer your question)
Evidence: (data gathered during your investigation)
Reasoning:( explain why your evidence supports your claim; use science words and ideas)