Inside, through hands-on experience and models, students will discover the adaptations of animals and how those adaptations help them survive in their pond habitat. Through live animal demonstrations and models, students will look at the life cycles of animals that live in a pond ecosystem. Outside, the class will learn about animal structure and classification by using a dichotomous key to determine patterns in the macroinvertebrates that live in our ponds. Students will then use scientific tools to sample macroinvertebrates. Students will investigate water quality based on the indicator species that they find in the pond. Class will discuss how humans can impact these habitats and communicate solutions for the future of a pond ecosystem.

Learn more about the Kensington Nature Center.