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Biodiversity at the Las Vegas Wash (Guided Research) Grade Levels: 8-10 Overview: Students examine changes over time on a site at the Las Vegas Wash. The invasive Saltcedar tree has been introduced to the wash and slowly alters the environment. Students review aerial site drawings and create a graph showing the changes in plant communities over 50 years. Students discuss their predictions for the site in the future if it is left alone (no human intervention).
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Teacher Tools Biodiversity at the Las Vegas Wash Helpful Guides for Students |
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Grade Level: 11-12 (advanced science), college (intro)
Overview: Students will take a field trip to Red Rock Wash, the dry wash leading from Red Rock National Conservation Area into Las Vegas. Student will research plant density, distribution, species diversity and more (measure and count vegetation in plots), observe for wildlife (tracks, bones, scat, binoculars, etc), take notes on environmental conditions such as human activities (off-road vehicles, trash, etc), and overall gain a better understanding of the local ecosystem. Teachers may want to bring helpful guides for plants, wildlife and birds, and animal tracks. Some guidance is provided in the packet.
The first step of an environmental impact statement (EIS) is to gather baseline data, or current conditions and uses of the site. This data can be used to compare with historical information and possibilities for future changes. Good luck environmental scientists!
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Grade Level: 6-8
Overview: Students can work together in groups or as individuals to create their own animals, plants, and biomes!
During this project students will identify and describe the interactions between their original plants, animals,
and biome creations. Students can present their animals and plants, and their adaptations to their environment by
illustrating a food web on their poster board, and by describing generalized and specialized species.
A printable quiz can help students to review their projects before or after giving their presentations.
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Grade Level: 9-12
Overview:
Subjects:
Environmental Impact Statement: Red Rock Wash
(Outdoor Research Activity)
Teacher Tools
Species Interactions and Adaptations
(Guided Research)
Teacher Tools
NEW LESSON PLAN
(Journal)
Teacher Tools 