Summary

Hands-on wetland lesson that explains what wetlands are and why they matter. Students learn the three key wetland features, hydric soils, hydrophilic plants, and water, and explore the ecological services wetlands provide, such as filtering pollutants, reducing floods, and supporting wildlife. Activities use everyday object metaphors and a wetland in a box model to show how wetlands soak up runoff and trap sediment. Includes reflection questions on identifying wetlands locally and protecting them.