Project Overview - Winter 2016
This Tidepool Treasures project has become a multi-year collaboration for kindergarten and first grade students at High Tech Elementary North County. Beginning in the 2014-2015 school year, and continuing each winter, students embark on a 12-week journey becoming experts in the natural phenomena of tides and the living and non-living features of the tidepool habitat. Through authentic field experiences, discussions with professionals, practicing purposeful scientific inquiry, and participating in the critique and revision process, our students continue to create products and models for the public, particularly for younger learners. As our learners undergo this unique experience, they also develop essential reading, writing, math, and 21st century collaborative skills to communicate their learning and share with others. Working together, we explore and attempt to answer the essential question "How are tidepools natural treasures?" We hope that this site inspires learners and supports educators in their own explorations!
First graders study the natural phenomena that is responsible for creating the tidepools. By exploring the relationships and patterns between the Earth, Sun, Moon, and our Ocean, students reflect on the driving question: “How can we, as first grade scientists, create a product that helps others understand tides and tidepools?”
Kindergarteners study about the tidepool habitat and the relationships between the living and nonliving features in our local tidepools. Students focus on the the essential question: “What do animals need to survive?" And the driving question: “How can we, as animal experts, teach others how to protect the animals that live in the tidepool habitat?”