Our Environment

On Monday we reviewed everything we have learned about air, water and soil. We also reviewed what erosion means. Before the break, we learned about erosion from water, on Monday we learned about erosion from wind. The students were given sand, clay, rocks and dirt. They used straws to act as "wind," and blew the different soils. We learned that wind can change the shape of earth and blow away particles. 

On Tuesday, we learned about different water sources. After, we reviewed why water and air is important to all living things. 

Then, we discussed the importance of being responsible with water as only 3% of earth's water can be used. In groups the students discussed how they can save water so it doesn't go to waste. 

On Wednesday, we learned how people have affected the environment over time. Before buildings and roads were constructed...what did the environment look like? We brainstormed a list of ideas...

1. More trees and grass.

2. More wildlife.

3. Less garbage.

4. No buildings, or cities. 

5. More lakes and streams.

Then we discussed the reasons why people had to make changes in the environment in order to live. Although we have made changes to the environment it is important that we protect it. We need clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and we want parks to stay clean and safe. Some of the students suggested that we can plant new trees if we cut an old one down. Next, we went on a nature scavenger hunt! 

After the scavenger hunt we did an experiment to see if we can undo water pollution. We used a bucket of clean water, household trash, vegetable oil, tongs and a strainer. We put all the trash into the clean water and then we tried to remove all of the pollution. We attempted to remove all of the pollutants, but the water was still dirty. We learned that it is impossible to remove all of the pollutants from the water. Therefore it is important that we recycle, and raise awareness about oil spills and how it damages our environment. 

*Note*

If you are interested in using any of these handouts you can purchase them on TPT.

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Air-and-Water-in-the-Environment-A-Primary-Science-Unit-in-a-Paper-Bag-685782
http://gironlife.blogspot.ca/2010/04/experiment-can-you-undo-water-pollution.html