River Dipping
River Dipping
Discover what lives in our freshwater habitats by visiting your local river or stream and collecting invertebrates to take a closer look at.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the session, students should be able to:
- Identify numerous freshwater invertebrates using identification guides.
- Keep themselves and the wildlife around them safe.
- Recall a scientific method of sampling species population and water quality.
Session Outline
- River Safety: Explore the riverbanks and even get into the river in your wellies whilst keeping yourself and the wildlife safe.
- Kick Sampling: Learn a key sampling method scientists use to measure freshwater invertebrate populations which indicate the water quality.
- Freshwater Invertebrate Identification: Identify common freshwater species and learn what adaptions they have made to survive in this habitat.
Curriculum Links
- Scoillyn Eco/ Eco Schools Link: Water: an introduction to the importance of water both locally and globally.
- Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Link: 6. Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Possible Locations
Below are a few great locations for river dipping however MWT Education Officer, Beth, can advise on the best location for your school and age group.
- North – MWT Cooildarry Nature Reserve
- East – Molly Quirks Glen, Summerhill Glen, River Glass
- South – Silverdale Glen
- West – Garey ny Cloie, River Neb