At East Middle School, sixth grade science students explored the functions of wetlands by creating a "living machine," a miniature in-class replica stocked with plants, fish, and micro-organisms. Students developed hypotheses about the wetland's ability to purify water 'contaminated' with red soda.
     To test their theories, students conducted experiments on temperature, purification, oxygen levels, and other factors

To link the experiment to the local watershed, students were shown how everyday actions--like fertilizing the lawn--affect the Huron River. As a final project, students worked with the local River Watershed Council to clean neighborhood storm drains, place "Dump No Waste" labels on them, and distribute educational materials to residents and businesses.