Ducks sitting on Oneida Lake.
Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0
Pathway Summary
Anchoring phenomenon lesson
Students examine images, maps, and text showing how Oneida Lake is warming and no longer icing over as it has historically. They also read about three different fish species in the lake and create systems models to explain the roles these species play and how they are affected by the lake’s warming waters. Based on gaps and uncertainties in their models, students develop a Driving Question Board, which guides their subsequent investigations into the impacts of Oneida Lake’s warming waters.
Culminating task
After exploring the effects of Oneida Lake’s warming waters, investigating the causes of global climate change, and identifying carbon drawdown solutions, students work in groups to complete a culminating task. They brainstorm the impacts of climate change on local industries and the economy, identifying effects on the fishing industry, recreational activities (e.g., snowmobiling and ice fishing), and other fish species in the lake. Students then choose a topic to research and produce a research poster, which they present at a youth science symposium hosted at a local university.
Phenomenon
Oneida Lake temperatures are increasing and the lake rarely freezes over like it used to.
Community
Syracuse is a large urban city in upstate New York. The city is situated nearby many lakes, including Lake Ontario, Oneida Lake, and the Finger Lakes. Because of its location nearby many bodies of water, the Syracuse area has a large fishing community. Oneida Lake is also home to the annual Walleye Fishing Contest.
Materials Available
Anchoring phenomenon lesson
Culminating task
Key Features
Near water
Fishing community
Educator Insight
Teacher: Lisa Lowenberg
Why I chose this phenomenon
I teach in a rural village in Central New York that is surrounded by many lakes, streams, even waterfalls. I chose my phenomenon based on student interests and usage of Oneida Lake. Many students live on or near the lake. It is widely used for recreation and several fishing derbies occur as well. I felt that my students would connect to this phenomena as it will impact their future and the future of the people who fish from this lake.
How my students responded
My students were surprised at how climate change will impact the lake and fish that inhabit the lake. They were very surprised when we looked at historical data regarding ice overs and the lack there of over the past 20 years. Many students commented on how much the local economy depends on the fishing industry and how climate change will impact that.
