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How Can We Compare and Share Our Creek Data?

Creek data collected at Point Reyes National Seashore or local creeks can become more meaningful when compared and contrasted with other creeks in the North San Francisco Bay region. The North Bay Riparian Station is a perfect opportunity to share creek data and learn more about the entire watershed's health.

Time required: 1 - hour Location: classroom Suggested group size: all students can participate and access website Subject(s): science and math Concept(s) covered: technology used for data and research, internet in the classroom, environmental stewardship Written by: Tricia Corsetti, Tomales Elementary School Last updated: 03/04/00

Student Outcomes
At the end of this activity, the students will be able to:

• Find real applications for creek ecology research.
  
• Access environmental data from other sites of the North San Francisco Bay Riparian Station website.
  
• Use the computer as an educational tool.

California Science Standard Links (grades 6 – 8)
This activity is linked to the California Science Standards in the following areas:

6th grade:

7b - appropriate tools and technology to perform tests, collect data, and display data;
7d - communicate the steps and results from an investigation;

7th grade:

7a - appropriate tools and technology to perform tests, collect data, and display data;
7b - utilize a variety of print and electronic resources;
7c - communicate the logical connections;
7e - communicate the steps and results from an investigation.

8th grade:

9b - evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of data.

National Science Standard Links (grades 5 – 8)
This activity is linked to the National Science Standards in the following areas:

• Content Standard A - Understanding about scientific inquiry.



• Content Standard E - Understanding about science and technology.

Materials
To be provided by the teacher:

• Computer with access to the Internet (Netscape 3.04 or higher).

To be photocopied by the teacher:

• Field Journal Sheets with data results from on-site visit.

Vocabulary
none

Procedures

1. Order instruction manual
   Teachers need to contact the North Bay Riparian Station at (415) 332-1941 or www.mywatershed.org for a copy of the Online GIS/Database Training Manual to assist in the data-entry process for their classroom.



2. Explore website
   After the students have collected, analyzed, and compiled their creek ecology data as a class, they will access the North Bay Riparian Station website listed above.



3. Enter creek information online
   See the attached teacher information from the training manual to begin the website program.

Extension ideas

1. The Internet is an excellent resource for classrooms to participate in environmental research projects and to link with other classrooms doing similar projects. The EPA, Trout Unlimited, and local universities all have websites for classrooms to access and do research.

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