Methods of Implementation:
Students will conduct investigations outside in the riparian environment with their classroom teachers and parent volunteers. Investigations are ongoing during the school year along with a dedicated day long Yuba River Day to investigate all aspects of our unique summit environmental community. The Yuba River Day is not only investigations, it is also an opportunity for the students to give back to the community and the local environment through planting indigenous plants to create habitats and restore eroded areas.
Measures of success or achievement:
Students will be measured by their ability to complete the 7 investigations with the appropriate responses and products. Students will be able to write/explain the standard for each investigation. The Yuba River Day provides a foundation and launch pad for future extension and follow up activities throughout the school year. Also included is parent feedback and teacher evaluations of the Yuba River Day.
How does this grant tie into your PLC:
Outdoor/Environmental Education is a focus at Donner Trail. This is the ninth year of Yuba River Day, in addition, we have done river investigations for 17 years. This is a huge part of how we believe science should be taught-hands on. These programs/supplies are the primary tools we utilize to teach the scientific process.