Impacts

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, clean water is a central part of the culture of Minnesota! What IS clean water though? Scientists measure all sorts of things about water to figure out whether an aquatic system is healthy or not. Macroinvertebrates (small critters that live in the water) and plants can tell us about the health of a system! In this series of videos, you will sample for macroinvertebrates, from selecting a collection location and scooping for macros, to sorting and identifying what you find using a dichotomous key.

Four different implementation plans with student worksheets help teachers focus exploration on one of several grade-level standards. If classrooms are not able to collect macros on their own, teachers are encouraged to do a basic collection and then allow students to sort them. Get the teacher guide, implementation plans, ID resources and microscope photos, dichotomous keys and more.

Teacher Resources

Produced by Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, University of Minnesota.

Mosquitoes need standing water to reproduce and with thousands of lakes, swamps, ponds and other wetlands, Minnesota provides plenty of habitat. In the video learn about the mosquito life cycle, how to control them, and the role they play in the environment.

Watch Mosquito Life Cycle Video

Produced by Metropolitan Mosquito Control District.

In this lesson plan, students will learn about fish identification and gain the skill needed to use a dichotomous key to lead them to the common name of the fish. Print and distribute the key to students prior to watching the presentation. Get the presentation and dichotomous key instructions.

Activity Presentation:

Dichotomous Key:

Produced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Learn about local wildlife and why they need clean water. Water experts will share how you can help keep our lakes and rivers clean from your own home or school.

Match Game Worksheet:

Produced by Capitol Region Watershed District.