Middle School Field Trips
Middle School Tours Science: Ecology Tour – Grades 6, 7, 8
A 45-minute on-river adventure that meets Indiana DOE Standards for STEM and Science.
STEM and Science Standards: 6.LS.5; 7.LS.1; 8.LS.7; 6.PS.2; 7.ESS.4; 7.ESS.7, 8.ESS.2; 8.ESS.3; 6.LS.4; 7.ESS.7; 8.ESS.3
Primary Topics:
Plankton Observation—Productivity and Plankton (Geological and biological change, human impact on natural environment / ecosystem
Watershed Observation—Geological change, human impact on natural environment/ecosystem
Environment Observation—Native/non-native/Invasive species, human protections and interactions with the rivers.
On-board river water sampling with a plankton net, students will examine samples with a magnifying glass and/or digital microscope and project observations of plankton and phytoplankton to on-board TV monitors.
On-board observations allow students to identify natural versus human-made land impacts and investigate nonpoint source pollution with an interactive watershed model. Observe plant and animal species living along the Fort Wayne Rivers and observe the human impact on the rivers, plants, and animal species.
View or download Worksheet – Watersheds & Wetlands
Adaptive Middle School Education Experience – Science/Ecology
(Funded by AWS Foundation)
These field trips are low-stimulation in a calming environment that covers a variety of ecology-related topics.
To better prepare students for this visit, we have some introductory videos that prepare new riders for a Sweet Breeze experience.
Sweet Breeze is accessible to all, including onboard restroom facilities and walkways/ramps.
AWS Foundation funds adaptive field trips at no cost to students.
