1. Ecosystem Journal Details

2. Recording a visit  Use proper journal format.  Allow enough time to really experience!  Include the date (month/day/year); temperature; weather (as detailed as you can be)  Be prepared to make diagrams, or take pictures.  Record measurements.

3. Measurements  You should find something to help you document change. (not necessarily predictable change)  Flow rate of a stream.  Rainfall.  Growth rate of plants, or grass.  Do not get too complex.

4. September = 2 visits  #1 – General observations, what kinds of plants and animals do you see, or see evidence of. (be specific: look up what you do not readily know!)  #2 - General observations, what kinds of plants and animals do you see, or see evidence of. (be specific: look up what you do not readily know!)  #3 – “Sit and listen”. Plan to devote at least 10 minutes to just sitting in one spot and listening. Write what you hear, what impressions did you get of the area from listening?

5. October  Two observations at least!  #1&2 – General observation: note differences and similarities from your last visit.  #3 – Pond Sample.

6. Pond samples  Will be taken and observed once each month.  Find a container in which to collect a sample of water from your ecosystem.  The container should: Have a lid that is secure. Not be larger than 8 oz. Be obtained with permission: do not steal something from your kitchen. Be dedicated to your collections

7. November  Two observations at least!  #1&2 – General observation: note differences and similarities from your last visit.  #3 – Identify the kinds of trees that are in your area of study. Be as specific as you can be.