Alex’s Big Idea:
Using river tank ecosystems with zebrafish, ghost shrimp, freshwater clams, freshwater crabs, and daphnia, students investigate the impact of microplastics in the Indian River Lagoon. Students perform baseline testing before adding microplastics into one tank while monitoring differences over time. Working with quantitative and qualitative data, students then complete an engineering design challenge to reduce the amount of microplastic in the river tank.
Interesting Facts:
Alex began her career working as a Wilderness Ranger for the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards, and then worked as a Park Ranger in the South Carolina State Parks system.
In her own words: “I have loved every minute of my 6 years teaching my budding scientists! I am passionate about encouraging a love for science in my students by giving them access to exciting, hands-on lessons.”