Introduction
The Everglades is one of the most important ecosystems in Florida, but a lot of people don’t realize how much it is actually being damaged. It is home to many different plants and animals, and it also helps keep the environment balanced.
In this WebQuest, students will learn about what the Everglades is, why it is important, and how humans are affecting it. By the end, students will not only understand the problem but also think of possible solutions.
Students will be able to:
Describe what the Everglades is
Explain why it is important
Analyze how humans impact the environment
Come up with ideas to help protect it
Task
Students will work in groups to create a PowerPoint presentation about the Everglades.
The presentation should include:
What the Everglades is
Why it is important
At least 2 threats to the Everglades
Possible solutions to protect it
Each group will present their PowerPoint to the class.
Process
Step 1 Students will be placed into groups of 3 to 4
Step 2 Each student will choose a role
Researcher finds information online
Writer organizes the information
Designer creates the slides
Presenter speaks during the presentation
Step 3 Use the websites below to find information
https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment
Step 4 Answer these questions as a group
What is the Everglades
Why is it important
What are the biggest threats to it
How can people help protect it
Step 5 Create a PowerPoint with at least 6 to 8 slides
Step 6 Practice presenting as a group
Step 7 Present to the class
Evaluation
Students will be graded based on the following
Content 25 points Information is correct and complete
Creativity 25 points Slides are neat and visually appealing
Teamwork 25 points Everyone participates
Presentation 25 points Clear speaking and effort
Total 100 points
Conclusion
In this WebQuest, students learned about the Everglades and why it is such an important ecosystem. They also explored how human actions can negatively affect the environment and what can be done to help.
Enrichment Activity
Watch a short video about the Everglades and write 3 things you learned
Credits
This WebQuest used information from the following websites
https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm
Teacher Page
Grade Level
This WebQuest is designed for high school students in grades 9 to 12
Subject Area
Environmental Science or Geography
Time Required
2 to 3 class periods
Learning Objectives
Students will be able to describe the Everglades ecosystem
Students will be able to explain why the Everglades is important
Students will be able to analyze human impact on the environment
Students will be able to propose solutions to environmental problems
Standards
This lesson aligns with Florida state standards related to environmental science and human impact on ecosystems
Teaching Tips
Make sure students stay on task during group work
Encourage equal participation from all group members
Provide guidance if students have trouble finding reliable information