​​​​​​​​​Welcome to Inside the Outdoors' Wild Wetlands program at the Muth Interpretive Center! ​

Second Grade
NGSS PE Supported: 2-LS4-1

Why is biodiversity important in an ecosystem? During this two-hour field trip at Upper Newport Bay, second-grade students act as scientists to investigate the diversity of birds, insects, and plants in a coastal wetland ecosystem and determine if patterns exist between what is living on land and in the water. Students conduct field surveys, participate in a system modeling game, and discuss how the biodiversity of an area supports the health of the ecosystem. This program fosters a connection to conservation and appreciation for one of the most threatened ecosystems in the U.S.

Activity Stations include:

• Birding - Students use binoculars and bird guides to make observations of the various bird species to help aid in discussion of the importance of habitats. 
  
  
• Plants - Students work with each other to identify plant species and reflect on how they can serve as an indication of an ecosystem's health and balance with other organisms. 
  
  
• ​Insects and Host Plants - Students meet a darkling beetle and discuss the ecological role of insects. Students then participate in an interactive modeling game to experience scenarios that illustrate the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem balance.​

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