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6th Grade: Climate Extremes-Drought


Available to schools located in:
Cloverdale, Cotati, Forestville, Geyserville, Glen Ellen, Healdsburg, Kenwood, Novato, Penngrove, Petaluma (does not include Two Rock), Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa (includes Larkfield-Wikiup), Sonoma, Ukiah, Windsor

This FREE program includes one 60-minute, hands-on lesson led by a Sonoma Water educator. 

Drought Lesson Summary:

In this lesson, students review the historical record of rainfall in the Russian River watershed, observing long-term patterns and identifying periods of drought. Working in groups, they investigate water quality in a drought-impacted creek compared to typical conditions. Using claim-evidence-reasoning, students analyze how drought affects water quality requirements for salmon. They also explore the cultural significance of salmon to local Native tribes and how declining populations affect these communities.

Essential Question: 

How do climate extremes like drought impact salmon?

Objectives:

  • Students will learn about extreme precipitation patterns in the Russian River watershed as a result of climate change.
  • Students will investigate the environmental impacts of drought using models, pictures, and hands-on examples.
  • Students will develop and use a model to describe how drought affects salmon.
  • Students will feel empowered to conserve water and design their own solutions to help limit the impacts of drought.

Teacher Guide - Essential Program Information (document coming soon) 

Questions? Contact the Program Coordinator  

Water and Energy Education programs are FREE thanks to funding from these partners: