Real Learning Real Work
A Restoration Design Program for Middle School StudentsAbout the Program
Real Learning Real Work teaches students the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills necessary to envision, design, and implement their own salmon habitat restoration projects.
Through a series of field trips and classroom lessons, students assess habitat quality at a local waterway, define an engineering problem, and implement their restoration solution.
NOSC works closely with teachers to ensure the program fits the needs of students, the goals of the teachers, and takes advantage of locally available partnerships.
Standards Aligned
Curriculum is designed to meet NGSS science standards and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning objectives for middle school students.
Student Driven
Students practice leadership and decision making skills as they work together to execute their own restoration plan for a salmon-bearing stream in their community.
Field Science
Students learn and apply skills and concepts on experiential field trips, using the same tools and techniques as professional restoration engineers.
Career Connected
Students work alongside different restoration and conservation professionals and get to connect with others whose livelihoods and culture are tied to the work they are doing.
"The Real Learning Real Work Program has been a cornerstone tool in our 7th grade classes for years. It allows students to create solutions to a real-world problem that is meaningful to them. It also allows teachers an opportunity to integrate math, science, art and language arts seamlessly into a unified project."- Roger Mills, Blue Heron Middle School Teacher
