| University of Oregon | Environmental Studies Department

 

1River Raiders
This lesson plan introduces elementary school participants to stream ecology, salmon and their habitat, and human impact on rivers using hands-on, role-play, and art activities that draw upon the intelligences of various learning styles of students.

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2
Yes P.L.E.A.S.E. Trees
This activity teaches participants about riparian habitats of the Willamette River using plant and animal identification cards, and a metaphor exercise.  A focus on riparian plant life demonstrates to students that stream habitat is dependent on the  terrestrial life that it flows through. 

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3Splash in the Willamette
This activity introduces participants to recreational uses of the Willamette River, as well as a history of recreational fishing and boating on the Willamette River using simulator activities and   mathematics. It involves a strong focus on human-river      interactions, demonstrating how our actions have an impact on natural habitat, and how one can enjoy aquatic recreation while limiting negative environmental effects.

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4Erosion Loco Motion
This activity introduces participants to the importance of sediment in riparian areas by discussing the processes, types, and impacts of erosion.  Using the stream simulator students can witness the effects of fluvial erosion first-hand, through natural rivers, human induced structures such as culverts, as well as a demonstration of a dam collapse.

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5

Diatomination
This activity introduces participants to diatoms and their impact on river/stream ecology. It teaches which environments around the river diatoms will be located.  This lesson plan builds off previous knowledge of primary energy production, tropic levels, and microscope use. The activities show how even the biggest of life forms are dependent on microscopic organisms for their survival.

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