Service Learning & Lesson Plans

The California Water Boards developed the Water Quality Service Learning Program specifically for 4th through 6th grade levels. These instructional units use the educational process known as “service learning,” integrating inquiry-based learning with real-world, hands-on experiences. Select from the menu below to read more about service learning and the need for environmental education or to begin using the units of study.

• Introduction – Read about new environmental principles that strengthen the role of environmental education in California classrooms.
• Rate Service Learning Projects – Examine the general principles of good service learning practice and utilize the exercise to reflect upon what it really looks like in the classroom.
• Access an overview and the water quality units for each of the following grade levels:
  • Grade 4: Life Science Water Quality
  • Grade 5: Earth Science Water Quality
  • Grade 6: Life Science Water Quality
• Water Quality Service Project Workbook – Utilize these student pages during each of the water quality units.
• Guidelines for Science Investigations – Learn how to lead students in developing their own questions and performing their own investigations.

( Updated 11/17/08 )