Year-long fish tank projects are beginning in aquatic science classes for a hands-on approach to learning.
“It gives us an opportunity to connect in something different than classwork,” Aquatic Science teacher Robert Courtney said.
Students began their group projects on Sep. 29, and are in the process of setting up their tanks and purchasing their own fish.
The students will be working with a variety of aquatic species.
“Right now, I have Odessa Barbs, Mexican Dwarf Crawfish, Hill Stream Loach, Mountain Loach, Guppies, Cherry Barbs, Cardinal Tetras, [and] Ghost shrimp,” junior Evan Miller said. “I think I covered them all.”
According to the Aquatic Science teachers, the fish tank projects have helped many students become engaged in the classroom.
“[When] they walk in every day, they’re excited to see their fish. They’re checking on them to make sure they’re alive,” Courtney said. “They want to run tests, [and] they want to do extra work because they’re trying to make sure that the fish tank is how it’s supposed to be.”
The course itself is set up to suit a variety of learning styles, including the kinesthetic style of learning.
“My favorite thing about the class so far is it’s very hands-on,” senior Kaylee Barrow said. “I love being able to learn [by seeing] visuals [and by] taking care of the fish.”
The hands-on aspect to the class helps students improve their cognitive understanding of scientific concepts.
“When [students take a hands-on approach], they really become mentally engaged, and that helps them retain the information,” said Aquatic Science teacher Thad Ekle.
Projects such as the fish tank project help students comprehend and appreciate the natural world more.
“One thing that I love about earth sciences is [that it’s] something you encounter every day without normally paying attention to it,” Courtney said. “When at the lake [or a] pond, it gives them an opportunity to know a little bit more about what they’re experiencing or what they’re looking at.”
Students generally agree that the class has uses outside of school.
“I think overall it’s good information to know,” Miller said. “And you get more awareness about the whole world.”
