Workshop 1 : Water
Information for teachers
Biodiversity focus on freshwater ecosystems, examining pollution impacts, water cycles, runoff, and evidence-based inquiry.
Introduction: Detective Briefing
Pollution has struck the Waikato River — and the culprit is unknown. Students transform into Eco Warriors, beginning a forensic-style investigation across three clue-filled sessions. Each rotation helps them uncover means, motive, opportunity, and damages related to freshwater pollution.
Environment: What happened
Students join a forensic scientist to investigate water quality through hands-on tests exploring:
- pH
- carbon and nitrogen cycles
- contaminants and runoff
- effects on freshwater ecosystems
Using eDNA kits, students compare samples, detect ecosystem stressors, and narrow their suspect list.
Economy: How it happened
Students enter a lively mock talk show, acting as undercover detectives.
They question “businesses” about:
- water use
- sustainability practices
- environmental footprint
Clues from the interview reveal opportunities and gaps that could have contributed to the pollution.
Social: Why it happened
Hosted by a playful, kooky game show character, students participate in a sustainability-themed challenge.
They uncover:
- motives behind water misuse
- damages caused by environmental neglect
- social impacts on community health and wellbeing
Conclusion: The debrief
Students regroup to explore how environmental, social, and economic factors interact.
They answer questions, earn small rewards, and receive the critical thinking challenge they’ll complete back at school.