THE PROGRAM: Victory Garden is a program where students are raising fish, and in the process using math, science and technological applications in an authentic, "need to know" environment, as well as developing school to work career skills.
Because we are using up our renewable resources, students need to learn that conserva tion isn't enough to sustain life on our planet. How will we feed ourselves? What can we do? How about farming fish?
Sound absurd? Not so! Aquaculture is an ancient technology. Aquaculture is the culturing of aquatic plants and animals. We farm chickens, beef and dairy cattle, why not fish? Scientists are now looking at fish farming in recirculating tanks as the supply of good water becomes limited. These tanks can be placed anywhere; in your barn, your garage, the basement of your school or in your CLASSROOM! Why not take the math, social studies, technology and science aspects of tank culture and "hook" kids with it?
Students identify the parameters that provide fish with a healthy environment. They monitor water chemistry, follow the nitrogen cycle, look for evidence of nitrosomonas and nitrobacter, weigh food, understand how fish deal with life underwa ter, and learn simple engineering and plumbing principles. We've developed lessons on acid rain, fish farm math, fisheries, biology and accumulated all our instructional materials from various government, student and University sources.
THE STUDENTS: Our student population is 860. Although science lessons are easily adapted for this project, it is not limited to science alone. Activities in math, social studies,and technology are also easily developed as are health and nutrition. Visiting classes from the elementary school have provided evidence that all students can participate. One's creativity is the only limitation.
THE STAFF: Lovelle Ruggiero, 6th grade science teacher at Isaac E. Young Middle School, developed the program. She has taught in New Roch elle for 29 years, in both elementary and middle school and holds a master's degree in environ mental education. In 1996, she won the prestigious Tapestry Award to expand the farm to include hydroponics gardening.
MATERIALS: Polyethylene circular tanks, air pumps or compressors, hoses, fish, fish feed, PVC pipes and valves, monitoring equipment.
OUTSIDE RESOURCES: Outside resources might include field experiences to Cabbage Hill Tilapia Farm, a fishing trip, supermarkets, fish markets. Written text and resources can be easily supplied by SeaGrant Colleges and Government Agencies like USDA, NOAA, fisheries agencies.
OVERALL VALUE: As the 21st century ap proaches, we are facing a burgeoning growth in population. Providing food for the World's table is an important societal issue. This project allows students to participate in developing solutions to a realistic planetary problem.
RECOMMENDED FUNDING: $300.00
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
DEVELOPER: Lovelle Ruggiero
SCHOOL: Isaac E. Young Middle School
270 Centre Avenue
New Rochelle, NY 10805
(914) 576-4360
PRINCIPAL: Thelma R. Esteves
DISTRICT: City School District New Rochelle
