Tag: ecosystems

Mission: Save the Reef

As part of their Earth Science studies, sixth grade students have been exploring how pests and invasive species impact ecosystems. One focus has been the Crown-of-Thorns (COT) sea star, a species currently threatening the Great Barrier Reef. Students learned how the sea star’s rapid reproduction and lack of natural predators have led to significant damage in this delicate ecosystem. By feeding on coral, COTs are contributing to the reef’s decline at an alarming rate.

To better understand real-world solutions, students investigated how scientists are responding to this challenge. They explored using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) to identify and inject vinegar into sea stars, a method that effectively eliminates them. These ROVs can operate continuously and in a variety of ocean conditions, making them a powerful tool for conservation efforts.

Bringing this learning to life, students worked collaboratively to design and build their own ROVs. Teams engineered frames, installed motors, learned to operate control systems, and added creative design features as they stepped into the roles of engineers and marine scientists.

On Tuesday, students put their designs to the test at the MCC Augusta Pool. Their challenge was to navigate their ROVs underwater and retrieve imitation Crown-of-Thorns sea stars, simulating the work of marine conservation teams on the Great Barrier Reef.

Students spent the first part of the session learning to maneuver their ROVs and coordinate as teams. Once they became comfortable operating the controls, teachers released the imitation COT sea stars into the pool for retrieval.

Armed with creative retrieval tools such as shovels, Velcro, and scoops, teams worked together to collect the sea stars from the bottom of the pool. By the end of the challenge, the class had successfully retrieved a record 38 Crown-of-Thorns sea stars.

This hands-on experience allowed students the opportunity to fully engage in the engineering design process while tackling a real-world environmental issue. Through collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation, students saw firsthand how science and technology can be used to protect ecosystems and make a meaningful impact on the world around them.

#SaklanHandsOn

Fifth Grade Leads Redwood Grove Restoration Project

The culmination of fifth grade’s Redwood Grove Project Based Learning unit was a powerful example of student leadership in action. After weeks of studying forest ecosystems and soil health, students led a shared effort to show their beloved redwood grove some love, restoring natural forest-like conditions to support the trees’ long-term health.

The culmination began with a purposeful walk to Outdoor Supply Hardware, where garden staff offered just the expert advice students needed. Rather than “feeding” the trees, they learned that the grove required a return to natural conditions. Mulch would help retain moisture and encourage the healthy decomposition of fallen leaves, needles, and twigs. With this knowledge, students selected shredded redwood mulch, leaf scoops, and rakes, tools that will allow fallen leaf litter to be returned to the grove year-round.

Back on campus, students worked collaboratively and followed their team contracts to prepare for service day. They drafted a formal purchase request, created hearts and ribbons with messages of appreciation, designed and hung posters, unloaded supplies, and set up tables and chairs. Every detail was thoughtfully planned and entirely student-led.

On the morning of the restoration, they were ready. Students shared their research, explained their decisions for the grove, and confidently guided family members through the work they had prepared: loosening compacted sand, carefully spreading mulch, and protecting exposed roots in one section of the grove.

As the first section wrapped up, students received a surprise gift: Dawn Redwood seeds. If successfully grown, one may eventually stand in the new redwood playground, becoming a living learning legacy for future students.

The work didn’t stop there. During recess, fifth graders invited younger students to help restore the next section of the grove, modeling leadership and stewardship. Even steady rain at lunchtime could not dampen their momentum. Paths were raked, clear “go” and “no-go” zones were established, and by the end of the day, the transformation of the grove was visible.

This project was more than a lesson in ecology. It was a lesson in agency. When students are trusted to lead meaningful work, motivation and engagement flourish.

#SaklanPBL