The Lawrence Hall of Science

The public science center of the University of California, Berkeley.

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Environmental Detectives: A Murky Mystery

A young person holding up a science beaker and examining the red liquid

Grades 1 – 8

The Mystery: Fish and other wildlife are dying. The Investigation: Perform chemical and biological tests to determine what could be causing the situation. Intriguing hands-on test stations await as you gather clues, analyze data, and research the history of the area to become an environmental detective. The mystery continues back in the classroom, as teachers choose a follow-up activity from the packet provided, and as students pool their results and attempt to solve the mystery.

Related Next Generation Science Standards

Disciplinary Core Ideas: ESS3: Earth and Human Activity


Science and Engineering Practices: Analyzing and Interpreting Data; Arguing from Evidence; Constructing Explanations

Crosscutting Concepts: Cause and Effect Fees and Details

At Your Site
Enrollment100 (Grades 1-3); 150 (Grades 4-8) maximum
TimeTuesday – Friday
50 minutes
CostFull Rate: $1,200 for two sessions (two-session minimum; same program)
Full Rate: $1,400 for three sessions (same program)
Full Rate: $1,550 for four sessions with prior approval
Title 1 Rate: $840 for two sessions (two-session minimum; same program)
Title 1 Rate: $980 for three sessions (same program)
Title 1 Rate: $1,085 for four sessions with prior approval
If 80 or more miles away, a $320 travel fee applies
Adult volunteers required: 16, not including attending teachers

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