SIR Chemistry Investigation Abstract
THE LINCOLN PARK ZOO SOUTH POND PROJECT
Presenters:
Kathleen M. Barnes, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Claire Herdeman, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Micah Kanters, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Brittany L. Oleson, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Advisor:
Mr. John Thompson, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Abstract:
The Lincoln Park Zoo South Pond Project began with collaboration between the Chicago Park District and Lincoln Park Zoo (LPZ) in an effort to determine the best course of action for redesigning South Pond and establishing a model for teaching inquiry-based learning for area schools. It is expected to be a five-year project, culminating in reconstructing South Pond and creating a database of baseline biological information on the original pond. LPZ also intends South Pond to become a more active learning site; zoo programs will be modified based on this pilot study. LPZ invited IMSA to join the project in spring of 2004. Last year, the team developed an experimental design and acquired and tested a variety of aquatic monitoring equipment. Many issues have been resolved, allowing the researchers to collect data in the most effective and reliable manner. Sampling sites on the pond perimeter and a GPS grid for sampling across the pond were also developed. Biological (benthic, bacterial, plankton and vertebrate populations), chemical (turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and mineral concentrations) and morphology surveys are being conducted. Studies on human impact and visitation are also being carried out.