4th Grade
Chesapeake Bay Watershed, Structure & Function of Aquatic Organisms
Overview: Students will analyze maps of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and create a watershed model using found natural materials. As they develop an understanding of watershed mechanics, they will use their model to discover impacts of natural Earth processes and humans on the watershed. By dip-netting and illustration, students will make close observations of the aquatic organisms of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed andj infer how their structures and functions help them survive in their environment.
Dip-netting for fresh water aquatic organisms in the pond.
Students build and describe their watershed model.
Students use dip-nets to observe organisms adapted to brackish water.
Location: This field study is conducted by Elms Environmental Education Center educators at Elms Environmental Education Center in Lexington Park, MD. Any questions regarding the trip, including scheduling and special concerns, should be directed to Elms Environmental Education Center.
Typical Day (schedule is subject to change and may vary based on weather, transportation and needs of the individual class):
9:15am Bus pickup at school (8:45am for early schools)
Arrival at field study site. Welcome & Introduction
Morning Activities
Lunch
Afternoon Activities
Review and Wrap-up : 2:15 pm bus departure (1:45 pm for early schools)
Chaperones: Chaperones are vital to the success of our field studies, serving as active program assistants and small group leaders. Approved volunteers are selected by the classroom teacher. Remember to pack your lunch and dress for a day outdoors. *Please set your phones to vibrate/silent during the field study.*
Tips for Chaperones (PDF)
Prepare for Your Trip
What to Wear:
Rubber boots or shoes that can get wet and muddy are always a good option for this field study!
Dress for participation in outdoor activities and remember to choose clothes and shoes that can get wet and dirty.
Check the the weather for your field study site - Elms Environmental Education Center in Lexington Park, MD. Temperatures near the water can be 10 degrees COLDER (and more windy) than at home or school.
Layers are great for cold weather. Dress for the high temperature, and layer for the low.
Hats for cooling and shade are recommended.
Bring your rain gear when rain is expected.
Don't forget to pre-apply sun block and insect repellent before you leave home (if desired).
Food and Drink:
Pack your lunch in reusable containers, if possible.
Be prepared to recycle and compost any lunch remains.
Bring water to drink, in a reusable water bottle (labeled with your name), if possible.
Watershed Maps
Major Watersheds of the United States
Major Watersheds of the Chesapeake Bay
Chesapeake Bay Land Cover
Major Watersheds of Maryland
Major Watersheds of Saint Mary's County, MD
*Maps are free to print and use for non-commercial purposes only.
