Patricia McGinnis

McGinnis' "River Tank Project" explores biology and ecology by using a model of a living river ecosystem in a seventh-grade classroom. Throughout the year-long project, students monitor the River Tank for plant and animal life, using higher-order thinking skills to collect and analyze data. They make use of the Internet for extended research and specific software to organize findings into databases and spreadsheets. In addition to increasing scientific knowledge, students develop an understanding of local watersheds and the importance of protecting the environment.