In this compelling and unique series of life-science activities for grades two through six, student groups set up and observe living, desktop models of a pond. Over a period of weeks, each group studies and adds one type of organism at a time to a small tank, transforming the containers into aquatic habitats. As the model ponds develop and change over time, students discover firsthand some of the complex interactions within a typical pond ecosystem.Unlike clean, filtered aquariums, these aquatic habitats more closely model what happens in the natural world. Plants, worms, snails, fish, and other organisms compete for limited space, food, and resources. Concepts such as life cycles and food webs take on real and memorable meaning as students become increasingly drawn into the drama of life itself. TABLE OF CONTENTS: IntroductionTime FrameGetting Ready for the Whole UnitWhat You Need for the Whole UnitActivity 1 Creating an Aquatic HabitatActivity 2 Tubifex Worms and SnailsActivity 3 Fish Enter the HabitatActivity 4 MosquitoesActivity 5 Further ExplorationsPart I Ongoing Investigations with Classroom Aquatic HabitatsPart II An Aquatic Field TripGoing Further with Aquatic Field Trip ActivitiesBehind the ScenesSome Sources for Key ItemsResourcesAssessment SuggestionsLiterature Connections In addition to the basic activities, recommendations for extensions and a field trip to a pond are included. There is sufficient material here for teachers to involve children in four to six weeks of an ongoing inquiry. The book includes comprehensive, clearly stated directions, a list of all required materials, a list ofsuppliers, and suggestions for substitute materials. The writers also provide teachers with background information, questions to guide the children's inquiries, and an annotated list of related curriculum materials and books for children to read. This is an excellent instructional resource, and I recommend it highly.-Science Books and Films, May 1999