Let's create continuous conversations about climate change education: Spreading the Sediment of Science!

Interview: Dave Alexander

Provided by: NOAA Voices

Podcasts Grades 6-8, 9-12

Synopsis

This interview features Dave Alexander of Muskegon, Michigan as he describes Lake Muskegon as an integral and defining piece of his community.
Students will learn the importance of the lake, the ecosystem services it provides, the environmental issues it has faced, and the economic activity centered around the waterfront.

Subjects: Biology, Geography

Authors: Alexa Wutt, Kaitlyn Clark

Region: Southwest Michigan

Languages: English

Positives

The interviewee is a great storyteller and it is clear he is passionate about the waterfront.
Many students will be able to make connections to their own experiences with nearby lakes as they listen to the interview.

Prerequisites

If students do not live in or near Muskegon, teachers may want to take some time to discuss the city and where it is in relation to the students' hometown.
For some students, the teacher may need to make copies of or provide the link for the transcript.

Differentiation & Implementation

Students can identify a working waterfront in their community or in a community that is important to them and research its history, economic value, and ecosystem services.
As an exit ticket, students can answer the question; What is a working waterfront?
Students can use this interview and other resources to create a timeline of Muskegon Lake's history.
Students can discuss how industrial activities and anthropogenic climate change impact working waterfronts like Muskegon Lake.
Students can choose a significant body of water or other important environment in their community and write about how it defines their community.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

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Resource Type and Format