Carmen Cid is an ecologist who observes the natural world close to her home in the town of Willimantic, Connecticut. Students learn to test their own skills of observation. Teams of students place transect lines outside and use them to sample their local biodiversity.Studentsbuild testing devices and verify predictions. Pairs of students build model water bugs and use the bugs to find out how pollutants can affect water quality. Finally,they learn about the importance of maintaining healthy watersheds.

Instructional Materials Provided: EAch kit includes a video, CD-ROM, activity book and non-consumable items needed to do the activities.

Cost: ON A LOAN BASIS. This kit must be returned in the condition in which it was received. If not, the replacement cost is $70.

State Goals and Learning Standards: 1A C; 3A C; 4A B; 5C; 10A; 11A; 12A B E; 13A B