Marina Village Middle School
GLOBE Club Update
August 2009

Students at Marina Village Middle School have the opportunity to learn more about their
local environment while contributing to ongoing scientific research as a part of the
internationally recognized GLOBE program. Students involved in GLOBE carry out a
series of investigations that have been designed to gather data about the Earth and how
it functions as a global system. After selecting local sites to study, students then use
scientific instruments and their own senses to observe and gather data that is recorded
and submitted through the GLOBE website  (http://www.globe.gov/) Marina Village 8th
graders collect hydrology data at Brown’s Ravine Marina on Folsom Lake.  Once every other week,
3 to 8 students travel to the study site, document the location using GPS and collect data
on cloud cover, water transparency and water temperature.  They also collect water
samples to be taken back to the classroom for tests measuring electrical conductivity, pH
and dissolved oxygen. The GLOBE students become familiar with many important aspects
of water quality as a result of their involvement in the program and develop a greater
understanding of the principles of chemistry introduced in the 8th grade physical science
curriculum. Also, as students become proficient in conducting the various protocols, they
can assume leadership roles as team leaders who train students new to the program.
6th graders at Marina Village will soon begin to collect atmospheric and climate data with
plans to build a weather monitoring station on campus as time and funds allow.  The
Marina Village Science Department hopes to expand the program in the future to include
students at all grade levels and add additional protocols related to soil, land cover and
phenology.