"a limestone crevice leads to a lush, green canyon grotto...
a natural terrarium canopied by giant cypress trees"
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TEKS Correlation
Click here to download the K-5
Westcave Learning Objectives
and TEKs Correlations
in MSWord .doc format.
Click here to download the Grades 6-8
Westcave Learning Objectives and
TEKs Correlations
in MSWord .doc format.
Click here to download the K-5
Westcave Learning Objectives
and TEKs Correlations
in PDF format.
Click here to download the Grades 6-8
Westcave Learning Objectives and
TEKs Correlations
in PDF format.
Westcave Learning Objectives and Teks Correlations
Kindergarten
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(A) identify basic needs of living organisms;
(B) give examples of how living organisms depend on each other; and
(C) identify ways that the Earth can provide resources for life.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.8) The student knows the difference between living organisms and nonliving objects. The student is expected to:
(A) identify a particular organism or object as living or nonliving; and
(B) group organisms and objects as living or nonliving.
112.2(b)(K.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(C) identify ways that the Earth can provide resources for life.
112.2(b)(K.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) observe and describe properties of rocks, soil, and water; and
(B) give examples of ways that rocks, soil, and water are useful.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.4) The student uses age?appropriate tools and models to verify that organisms and objects and parts of organisms and objects can be observed, described, and measured. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and use senses as tools of observation.
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.3) The student knows that information and critical thinking are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) make decisions using information
(B) discuss and justify the merits of decisions; and
(C) explain a problem in his/her own words and propose a solution.
112.2(b)(K.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(A) identify basic needs of living organisms;
(B) give examples of how living organisms depend on each other; and
(C) identify ways that the Earth can provide resources for life.
112.2(b)(K.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) observe and describe properties of rocks, soil, and water; and
(B) give examples of ways that rocks, soil, and water are useful.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) observe and describe properties of rocks, soil, and water; and
(B) give examples of ways that rocks, soil, and water are useful.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.2(b)(K.7) The student knows that many types of change occur. The student is expected to:
(B) identify that heat causes change, such as ice melting or the Sun warming the air and compare objects according to temperature.
112.2(b)(K.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) observe and describe properties of rocks, soil, and water; and
(B) give examples of ways that rocks, soil, and water are useful.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.2(b)(K.3) The student understands the concept of chronology. The student is expected to:
(A) place events in chronological order; and
(B) use vocabulary related to time and chronology, including before, after, next, first, and last.
WESTCAVE LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND TEKS CORRELATIONS
FIRST GRADE
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.3(b)(1.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(A) identify characteristics of living organisms that allow their basic needs to be met; and
(B) compare and give examples of the ways living organisms depend on each other for their basic needs.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.3(b)(1.8) The student distinguishes between living organisms and nonliving objects. The student is expected to:
(A) group living organisms and nonliving objects; and
(B) compare living and nonliving objects.
112.3(b)(1.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe a variety of natural sources of water including streams, lakes, and oceans;
(B)observe and describe differences in rocks and soil samples.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities.
TEKS
112.3(b)(1.3) The student knows that information and critical thinking are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) make decisions using information;
(B) discuss and justify the merits of decisions;
(C) explain a problem in his/her own words and identify a task and solution related to the problem.
112.3(b)(1.9) The student knows that living organisms have needs. The student is expected to:
(B) compare and give examples of the ways living organisms depend on each other for their basic needs.
112.3(b)(1.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(C) identify how rocks, soil, and water are used and how they can be recycled
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.3(b)(1.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe a variety of natural sources of water including streams, lakes, and oceans;
(B) observe and describe differences in rocks and soil samples.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.3(b)(1.7) The student knows that many types of change occur. The student is expected to:
(B) identify and test ways that heat may cause change such as when ice melts
112.3(b)(1.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, and water. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe a variety of natural sources of water including streams, lakes, and oceans;
(B) identify how rocks, soil, and water are used and how they can be recycled.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.3(b)(1.3) The student understands the concepts of time and chronology. The student is expected to:
(A) distinguish among past, present, and future;
(B) create a calendar or timeline;
(C) use vocabulary related to chronology, including yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Westcave Learning Objectives and TEKs Correlations
Second Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.4(b)(2.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(A) identify the external characteristics of different kinds of plants and animals that allow their needs to be met; and
(B) compare and give examples of the ways living organisms depend on each other and on their environments.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.4(b)(2.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(B) compare and give examples of the ways living organisms depend on each other and on their environments.
112.4(b)(2. 10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and illustrate the water cycle; and
(B) identify uses of natural resources
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities
TEKS
112.4(b)(2.9) The student knows that living organisms have basic needs. The student is expected to:
(B) compare and give examples of the ways living organisms depend on each other and on their environments.
112.4(b)(2. 10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere. The student is expected to:
(B) identify uses of natural resources.
113.4(b)(2.8) The students understand how humans use and modify the physical environment. The student is expected to:
(A) identify ways in which people depend on the physical environment, including natural resources, to meet basic needs;
(B) identify ways in which people have modified the physical environment such as building roads, clearing land for urban development, and mining coal;
(C) identify consequences of human modification of the physical environment such as the use of irrigation to improve, crop yields; and
(D) identify ways people can conserve and replenish natural resources.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.4(b)(2.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and illustrate the water cycle; and
(B) identify uses of natural resources.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.4(b)(2.10) The student knows that the natural world includes rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and illustrate the water cycle.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.4(b)(2.2) The student understands the concepts of time and chronology. The student is expected to:
(A) describe the order of events by using designations of time periods such as ancient times and modern times;
(B) use vocabulary related to chronology, including past, present, and future;
(C) create and interpret timelines.
113.4(b)(2.7) The student understands how physical characteristics of places and regions affect people's activities and settlement patterns. The student is expected to:
(A) describe how weather patterns, natural resources, seasonal patterns, and natural hazards affect activities and settlement patterns; and
(B) explain how people depend on the physical environment and its natural resources to satisfy their basic needs.
Westcave Learning Objectives and TEKs Correlations
Third Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.8) The student knows that living organisms need food, water, light, air, a way to dispose of waste, and an environment in which to live. The student is expected to:
(A) observe and describe the habitats of organisms within an ecosystem;
(B) observe and identify organisms with similar needs that compete with one another for resources such as oxygen, water, food, or space.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.5 (b)(3.8) The student knows that living organisms need food, water, light, air, a way to dispose of waste, and an environment in which to live. The student is expected to:
(B) observe and identify organisms with similar needs that compete with one another for resources such as oxygen, water, food, or space;
(C) describe environmental changes in which some organisms would thrive, become ill, or perish.
112.5(b)(3.1 1) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe the importance of earth materials including rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere in the local area and classify them as renewable, nonrenewable, or inexhaustible resources.
(B) identify and record properties of soils such as color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.
112.5(b)(3.8) The student knows that living organisms need food, water, light, air, a way to dispose of waste, and an environment in which to live. The student is expected to:
(C) describe environmental changes in which some organisms would thrive, become ill or perish.
112.5(b)(3.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe the importance of earth materials including rocks, soil, water, and gases of the atmosphere in the local area and classify them as renewable, nonrenewable, or inexhaustible resources.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring?fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.5(b)(3.6) The student knows that forces cause change. The student is expected to:
(B) identify that forces such as earthquakes and glaciers can change the surface of the Earth.
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events that led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.5(b)(3.6) The student knows that forces cause change. The student is expected to:
(B) identify that the surface of the Earth can be changed by forces such as earthquakes and glaciers.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.5(b)(3.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(B) identify and record properties of soils such as color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of non?point source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.5(b)(3.8) The student knows that living organisms need food, water, light, air, a way to dispose of waste, and an environment in which to live. The student is expected to:
(C) describe environmental changes in which some organisms would thrive, become ill, or perish.
112.5(b)(3.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe the importance of earth materials including rocks, soil, water and gases of the atmosphere in the local area and classify them as renewable, nonrenewable, or inexhaustible resources.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.3) The student knows that information, critical thinking, and scientific problem solving are used in making decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(B) identify and record properties of soils such as color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and e-coli. (Optional).
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.5(b)(3.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence.
112.5(b)(3.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, microscopes, cameras, safety goggles, sound recorders, clocks, computers, thermometers, hand lenses, meter sticks, rulers, balances, magnets, and compasses; and
(B) demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.
112.5(b)(3.7) The student knows that matter has physical properties. The student is expected to:
(A) gather information including temperature, magnetism, hardness, and mass using appropriate tools to identify physical properties of matter;
(C) identify matter as liquids, solids, and gases.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.5(b)(3.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations; and
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.5(b)(3.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement descriptive investigations including asking well?defined questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect information by observing and measuring;
(C)analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct simple graphs, tables, maps, and charts to organize, examine and evaluate information.
112.5(b)(3.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, microscopes, cameras, safety goggles, sound recorders, clocks, computers, thermometers, hand lenses, meter sticks, rulers, balances, magnets, and compasses; and
(B) demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.
112.5(b)(3.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to: (C) identify and record properties of soils such as color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.5(b)(3.3) The student understands the concepts of time and chronology. The student is expected to:
(A) use vocabulary related to chronology, including ancient and modern times and past, present, and future times;
(B) create and interpret timelines; and
(C) describe historical times in terms of years, decades, and centuries.
Westcave Learning Objectives and TEKs Correlations
Fourth Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.5) The student knows that complex systems may not work if some parts are removed. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe the roles of some organisms in living systems such as plants in a schoolyard, and parts in nonliving systems such as a light bulb in a circuit; and
(B) predict and draw conclusions about what happens when part of a system is removed.
112.6(b)(4.8) The student knows that adaptations may increase the survival of members of a species. The student is expected to:
(A) identify characteristics that allow members within a species to survive and reproduce;
(D) compare adaptive characteristics of various species.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.8) The student knows that adaptations may increase the survival of members of a species. The student is expected to:
(A) identify characteristics that allow members within a species to survive and reproduce;
(B) compare adaptive characteristics of various species.
112.6(b)(4. 10) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe effects of events that require time for changes to be
noticeable including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment
112.6(b)(4.5) The student knows that complex systems may not work if some parts are removed. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and describe the roles of some organisms in living systems such as plants in a schoolyard, and parts in nonliving systems such as a light bulb in a circuit; and
(B) predict and draw conclusions about what happens when part of a system is removed.
113.6(b)(4.9) The student understands how people adapt to and modify their environment. The student is expected to:
(A) describe ways people have adapted to and modified their environment in Texas, past and present;
(B) identify reasons why people have adapted to and modified their environment in Texas, past and present such as the use of natural resources to meet basic needs; and
(C) analyze the consequences of human modification of the environment in Texas, past and present.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring?fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations
112.6(b)(4.10) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe effects of events that require time for changes to be noticeable including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events which led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.6(b)(4.10) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe effects of events that require time for changes to be noticeable including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.6(b)(4.10) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe effects of events that require time for changes to be noticeable including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of non?point source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(D) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations;
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations;
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.
112.6(b)(4.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(C) identify the Sun as the major source of energy for the Earth and understand its role in the growth of plants, in the creation of winds, and in the water cycle.
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) test properties of soils including texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support life.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and e-coli. (Optional).
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations; and
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.6(b)(4.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence.
112.6(b)(4.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, safety goggles, microscopes, cameras, sound recorders, computers, hand lenses, rulers, thermometers, meter sticks, timing devices, balances, and compasses; and
(B) demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.
112.6(b)(4.7) The student knows that matter has physical properties. The student is expected to:
(B) conduct tests, compare data, and draw conclusions about physical properties of matter including states of matter, conductivity, density, and buoyancy.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.6(b)(4.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations; and
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.6(b)(4.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement descriptive investigations including asking well?defined questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect information by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct simple graphs, tables, maps, and charts to organize, examine, and evaluate information.
112.6(b)(4.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, safety goggles, microscopes, cameras, sound recorders, computers, hand lenses, rulers, thermometers, meter sticks, timing devices, balances, and compasses; and
(B) demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.
112.6(b)(4.11) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) test properties of soils including texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support life.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.6(b)(4.1) The student understands the similarities and differences of Native American groups in Texas and the Western Hemisphere before European exploration. The student is expected to:
(A) identify Native?American groups in Texas and the Western Hemisphere before European exploration and describe the regions in which they lived.
113.6(b)(4.9) The student understands how people adapt to and modify their environment. The student is expected to:
(A) describe ways people have adapted to and modified their environment in Texas, past and present;
(B) identify reasons why people have adapted to and modified their environment in Texas, past and present such as the use of natural resources to meet basic needs; and
(C) analyze the consequences of human modification of the environment in Texas, past and present.
Westcave Learning Objectives and TEKS Correlations
Fifth Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.9) The student knows that adaptations may increase the survival of members of a species. The student is expected to:
(A) compare the adaptive characteristics of species that improve their ability to survive and reproduce in an ecosystem;
(B) analyze and describe adaptive characteristics that result in an organism's unique niche in an ecosystem; and
(C) predict some adaptive characteristics required for survival and reproduction by an organism in an ecosystem.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS 112.7(b)(5.5) The student knows that a system is a collection of cycles, structures, and processes that interacts. The student is expected to:
(A) describe some cycles, structures, and processes that are found in a simple system;
(B) describe some interactions that occur in a simple system.
112.7(b)(5.6) The student knows that some change occurs in cycles. The student is expected to:
(B) identify the significance of the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.2) The student uses scientific methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring.
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.
113.7(b)(5.9) The student understands how people adapt to and modify their environment. The student is expected to:
(A) describe ways people have adapted to and modified their environment in the United States, past and present;
(B) identify reasons why people have adapted to and modified their environment in the United States, past and present, such as the use of human resources to meet basic needs;
(C) analyze the consequences of human modification of the environment in the United States, past and present.
113.7(b)(5.24) The student understands the impact of science and technology on life in the United States. The student is expected to:
(D) analyze environmental changes brought about by scientific discoveries and technological innovations such as air conditioning and fertilizers.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring?fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.7(b)(5.11) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe actions that require time for changes to be measurable, including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow;
(B) draw conclusions about "what happened before" using data such as from tree?growth rings and sedimentary rock sequences; and
(C) identify past events that led to the formation of the Earth's renewable, non?renewable, and inexhaustible resources.
112.7(b)(5.12) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) interpret how land forms are the result of a combination of constructive and destructive forces such as deposition of sediment and weathering.
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events which led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.7(b)(5.11) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe actions that require time for changes to be measurable, including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow;
(B) draw conclusions about "what happened before" using data such as from tree?growth rings and sedimentary rock sequences.
112.7(b)(5.12) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) interpret how land forms are the result of a combination of constructive and destructive forces such as deposition of sediment and weathering.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.7(b)(5.11) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe actions that require time for changes to be measurable, including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow;
(B) draw conclusions about "what happened before" using data such as from tree?growth rings and sedimentary rock sequences; and
(C) identify past events that led to the formation of the Earth's renewable, non?renewable, and inexhaustible resources,
112.7(b)(5.12) The student knows that the natural world includes earth materials and objects in the sky. The student is expected to:
(A) interpret how land forms are the result of a combination of constructive and destructive forces such as deposition of sediment and weathering.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of non?point source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations;
(D) evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment.
112.7(b)(5.11) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe actions that require time for changes to be measurable, including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow.
113.7(b)(5.24) The student understands the impact of science and technology on life in the United States. The student is expected to:
(D) analyze environmental changes brought about by scientific discoveries and technological innovations such as air conditioning and fertilizers.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations;
112.7(b)(5.5) The student knows that a system is a collection of cycles, structures, and processes that interacts. The student is expected to:
(A) describe some cycles, structures, and processes that are found in a simple system;
(B) describe some interactions that occur in a simple system.
112.7(b)(5.6) The student knows that some change occurs in cycles. The student is expected to:
(B) identify the significance of the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles.
112.7(b)(5.11) The student knows that certain past events affect present and future
events. The student is expected to:
(A) identify and observe actions that require time for changes to be measurable, including growth, erosion, dissolving, weathering, and flow.
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.7) The student knows that matter has physical properties. The student is expected to:
(A) classify matter based on its physical properties including magnetism, physical state, and the ability to conduct or insulate heat, electricity, and sound.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and e-coli. (Optional).
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations; and
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.7(b)(5.2) The student uses scientific methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect information by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.7(b)(5.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations following home and school safety procedures and environmentally appropriate and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations; and
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.7(b)(5.2) The student uses scientific methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement descriptive and simple experimental investigations including asking well?defined questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect information by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from
direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct simple graphs, tables, maps, and charts using tools including computers to organize, examine, and evaluate information.
112.7(b)(5.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, microscopes, cameras, sound recorders, computers, hand lenses, rulers, thermometers, compasses, balances, hot plates, meter sticks, timing devices, magnets, collecting nets, and safety goggles; and
(B) demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals (Optional).
TEKS
113.7(b)(5.4) The student understands political, economic, and social changes that occurred in the United States during the 19th century. The student is expected to:
(G) identify the challenges, opportunities, and contributions of people from selected Native?American and immigrant groups.
113.7(b)(5.9) The student understands how people adapt to and modify their environment. The student is expected to:
(A) describe ways people have adapted to and modified their environment in the United States, past and present:
(B) identify reasons why people have adapted to and modified their environment in the United States, past and present, such as the use of human resources to meet basic needs; and
(C) analyze the consequences of human modification of the environment in the United States, past and present.
Westcave Learning Objectives
and TEKs Correlations
Middle School
Sixth Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.8) The student knows that complex interactions occur between matter and energy. The student is expected to:
(C) describe energy flow in living systems including food chains and food webs.
112.22(b)(6.12) The student knows that the responses of organisms are caused by internal or external stimuli. The student is expected to:
(A) identify responses in organisms to internal stimuli such as hunger or thirst;
(B) identify responses in organisms to external stimuli such as the presence or absence of heat or light; and
(C) identify components of an ecosystem to which organisms may respond.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.5) The student knows that systems may combine with other systems to form a larger system. The student is expected to
(A) identify and describe a system that results from the combination of two or more systems such as a solar system.
112.22(b)(6.12) The student knows that the responses of organisms are caused by internal or external stimuli. The student is expected to:
(A) identify responses in organisms to internal stimuli such as hunger or thirst;
(B) identify responses in organisms to external stimuli such as the presence or absence of heat or light; and
(C) identify components of an ecosystem to which organisms may respond.
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) identify relationships between groundwater and surface water in a watershed.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
113.22(b)(6.7) The student understands the impact of interactions between people and the physical environment on the development of places and regions. The student is expected to:
(B) identify and analyze ways people have modified the physical environment.
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and their own communities
TEKS
113.22(b)(6.7) The student understands the impact of interactions between people and the physical environment on the development of places and regions. The student is expected to :
(B) identify and analyze ways people have modified the physical environment.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring]fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.22(b)(6.6) The student knows that there is a relationship between force and motion. The student is expected to:
(C) identify forces that shape features of the Earth including uplifting, movement of water, and volcanic activity.
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) identify relationships between groundwater and surface water in a watershed.
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events that led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.22(b)(6.6) The student knows that there is a relationship between force and motion. The student is expected to:
(C) identify forces that shape features of the Earth including uplifting, movement of water, and volcanic activity.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) identify relationships between groundwater and surface water in a watershed.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of non]point source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) identify relationships between groundwater and surface water in a watershed.
113.22(b)(6.7) The student understands the impact of interactions between people and the physical environment on the development of places and regions. The student is expected to:
(B) identify and analyze ways people have modified the physical environment.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.22(b)(6.8) The student knows that complex interactions occur between matter and energy. The student is expected to:
(B) explain and illustrate the interactions between matter and energy in the water cycle.
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) identify relationships between groundwater and surface water in a watershed.
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.7) The student knows that substances have physical and chemical properties. The student is expected to:
(B) classify substances by their physical and chemical properties.
112.22(b)(6.14) The student knows the structures and functions of Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) summarize the rock cycle.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and ecoli.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations;
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.22 (b)(6.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect data by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence.
112.22(b)(6.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, analyze, and record information using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, timing devices, hot plates, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, magnets, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, compasses, computers, and computer probes.
112.22(b)(6.7) The student knows that substances have physical and chemical properties. The student is expected to:
(B) classify substances by their physical and chemical properties.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.22(b)(6.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations;
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.22(b)(6.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement investigative procedures including asking questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect data by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct graphs, tables, maps, and charts using tools including computers to organize, examine, and evaluate data.
112.22(b)(6.4) The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, analyze, and record information using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, timing devices, hot plates, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, magnets, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, compasses, computers, and computer probes.
112.22(b)(6.12) The student knows that the responses of organisms are caused by internal or external stimuli. The student is expected to:
(C) identify components of an ecosystem to which organisms may respond.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals
TEKS
113.22(b)(6.7) The student understands the impact of interactions between people and the physical environment on the development of places and regions. The student is expected to :
(A) identify and analyze ways people have adapted to the physical environment in selected places and regions.
(B) identify and analyze ways people have modified the physical environment.
Westcave Learning Objectives
and TEKs Correlations
Seventh Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.11) The student knows that the responses of organisms are caused by internal and external stimuli. The student is expected to:
(B) identify responses in organisms to external stimuli found in the environment such as the presence or absence of light.
112.23(b)(7.12) The student knows that there is a relationship between organisms and the environment. The student is expected to:
(A) identify components of an ecosystem;
(B) observe and describe how organisms including producers, consumers, and decomposers live together in an environment and use existing resources;
(C) describe how different environments support different varieties of organisms;
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.11) The student knows that the responses of organisms are caused by internal and external stimuli. The student is expected to:
(B) identify responses in organisms to external stimuli found in the environment such as the presence or absence of light.
112.23(b)(7.12) The student knows that there is a relationship between organisms and the environment. The student is expected to:
(A) identify components of an ecosystem;
(B) observe and describe how organisms including producers, consumers, and decomposers live together in an environment and use existing resources;
(C) describe how different environments support different varieties of organisms;
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
113.23(b)(10) The student understands the effects of the interaction between humans and the environment in Texas during the 19th and 20th centuries. The student is expected to:
(A) identify ways in which Texans have adapted to and modified the environment and analyze the consequences of the modifications.
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and in their own communities.
TEKS
113.23(b)(10) The student understands the effects of the interaction between humans and the environment in Texas during the 19th and 20th centuries. The student is expected to:
(A) identify ways in which Texans have adapted to and modified the environment and analyze the consequences of the modifications.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring]fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(B) analyze effects of regional erosional deposition and weathering.
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events which led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and predict the impact of different catastrophic events on the Earth;
(B) analyze effects of regional erosional deposition and weathering.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.23(b)(7.7) The student knows that complex interactions occur between matter and energy. The student is expected to:
(A) illustrate examples of potential and kinetic energy in everyday life such as objects at rest, movement of geologic faults, and falling water.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) make inferences and draw conclusions about effects of human activity on Earth’s renewable, non-renewable, and inexhaustible resources.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of nonpoint source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) make inferences and draw conclusions about effects of human activity on Earth’s renewable, non-renewable, and inexhaustible resources.
113.23(b)(10) The student understands the effects of the interaction between humans and the environment in Texas during the 19th and 20th centuries. The student is expected to:
(A) identify ways in which Texans have adapted to and modified the environment and analyze the consequences of the modifications
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(C) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.23(b)(7.7) The student knows that complex interactions occur between matter and energy. The student is expected to:
(A) illustrate examples of potential and kinetic energy in everyday life such as objects at rest, movement of geologic faults, and falling water.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) make inferences and draw conclusions about effects of human activity on Earth’s renewable, non-renewable, and inexhaustible resources.
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) describe and predict the impact of different catastrophic events on the Earth
(B) analyze effects of regional erosional deposition and weathering.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and e]coli.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigation.
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.23(b)(7.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect data by observing and measuring.
112.23(b)(7.4) The student knows how to use tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, analyze, and record information to explain a phenomenon using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, hot plates, dissecting equipment, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, computers, computer probes, timing devices, magnets, and compasses.
112.23(b)(7.14) The student knows that natural events and human activity can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) make inferences and draw conclusions about effects of human activity on Earth’s renewable, non-renewable, and inexhaustible resources.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.23(b)(7.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigation.
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.23(b)(7.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement investigative procedures including asking questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect data by observing and measuring;
(C) organize, analyze, make inferences, and predict trends from direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct graphs, tables, maps, and charts using tools including computers to organize, examine, and evaluate data.
112.23(b)(7.4) The student knows how to use tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, analyze, and record information to explain a phenomenon using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, hot plates, dissecting equipment, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, computers, computer probes, timing devices, magnets, and compasses.
112.23(b)(7.5) The student knows that an equilibrium of a system may change. The student is expected to:
(B) observe and describe the role of ecological succession in maintaining an equilibrium in an ecosystem.
112.23(b)(7.12) The student knows that there is a relationship between organisms and the environment. The student is expected to:
(A) identify components of an ecosystem;
(B) observe and describe how organisms including producers, consumers, and decomposers live together in an environment and use existing resources;
(D) observe and describe the role of ecological succession in ecosystems.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals
TEKS
113.23(b)(7.10) The student understands the effects of the interaction between humans and the environment in Texas during the 19th and 20th centuries. The student is expected to:
(A) identify ways in which Texans have adapted to and modified the environment and analyze the consequences of the modifications.
Westcave Learning Objectives and TEKs Correlations
Eighth Grade
Learning Objective: Observe Westcave's lush plant life and understand the importance of plant communities, habitats and ecological diversity.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.6) The student knows that interdependence occurs among living systems. The student is expected to:
(C) describe interactions within ecosystems.
112.24(b)(8.11) The student knows that traits of species can change through generations and that the instructions for traits are contained in the genetic material of the organisms. The student is expected to:
(A) identify that change in environmental conditions can affect the survival of individuals and of species.
Learning Objective: Gain a better understanding of the interaction of water and geology on plant and animal communities.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.11) The student knows that traits of species can change through generations and that the instructions for traits are contained in the genetic material of the organisms. The student is expected to:
(A) identify that change in environmental conditions can affect the survival of individuals and of species.
Learning Objective: Experience the sounds of nature without urban background noises.
TEKS
113.24(b)(8.12) The student understands the physical characteristics of the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries and how humans adapted to and modified the environment. The student is expected to:
(B) describe the consequences of human modification of the physical environment of the United States.
Learning Objective: Understand the importance of conservation at Westcave and in their own communities.
TEKS
113.24(b)(8.12) The student understands the physical characteristics of the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries and how humans adapted to and modified the environment. The student is expected to:
(B) describe the consequences of human modification of the physical environment of the United States.
Learning Objective: Understand the formation of the following geological features at Westcave Preserve: limestone canyon, artesian spring]fed waterfall, limestone cave, travertine columns, stalactites and stalagmites.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.24(b)(8.14) The student knows that natural events and human activities can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) predict land features resulting from gradual changes such as mountain building, beach erosion, land subsidence, and continental drift.
Learning Objective: Gain knowledge of the geologic events which led to the formation of the Edwards Plateau.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.24(b)(8.14) The student knows that natural events and human activities can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) predict land features resulting from gradual changes such as mountain building, beach erosion, land subsidence, and continental drift.
Learning Objective: Gain an increased understanding of the reasons groundwater aquifers form and their properties.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.24(b)(8.14) The student knows that natural events and human activities can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) predict land features resulting from gradual changes such as mountain building, beach erosion, land subsidence, and continental drift.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of nonpoint source pollution and its significance.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.24(b)(8.11) The student knows that traits of species can change through generations and that the instructions for traits are contained in the genetic material of the organisms. The student is expected to:
(A) identify that change in environmental conditions can affect the survival of individuals and of species.
112.24(b)(8.14) The student knows that natural events and human activities can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) describe how human activities have modified soil, water, and air quality.
Learning Objective: Learn the meaning of the hydrologic (water) cycle and increase understanding of the processes that underlie the exchanges of water between its various states and locations.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.3) The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.
112.24(b)(8.10) The student knows that complex interactions occur between matter and energy. The student is expected to:
(A) illustrate interactions between matter and energy including specific heat;
(B) describe interactions among solar, weather, and ocean systems
Learning Objective: Learn the system used to classify rocks and soils. Inspect the rock and soil series that are present at Westcave Preserve.
TEKS
112.24(b)(8.12) The student knows that cycles exist in Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(A) analyze and predict the sequence of events in the lunar and rock cycles.
Learning Objective: Learn to collect and perform field tests for water samples including pH, dissolved chemical components, and e]coli.
TEKS
112.22(b)(8.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations;
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.22(b)(8.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(B) collect data by observing and measuring;
112.23(b)(8.4) The student knows how to use tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, record and analyze information using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, hot plates, dissecting equipment, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, computers, computer probes, water test kits, and timing devices.
112.23(b)(8.9) The student knows that substances have chemical and physical properties. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate that substances may react chemically to form new substances.
112.23(b)(8.14) The student knows that natural events and human activities can alter Earth systems. The student is expected to:
(C) describe how human activities have modified soil, water, and air quality.
Learning Objective: Learn to conduct an environmental survey and increase identification skills by gathering information such as plants, insects, spiders, birds and/or nests, rocks and soil present in a specific area of Westcave Preserve. Utilize computer skills and provide a lasting record of their visit by entering the collected information into Westcave's database.
TEKS
112.22(b)(8.1) The student conducts field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations;
(B) make wise choices in the use and conservation of resources and the disposal or recycling of materials.
112.22(b)(8.2) The student uses scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) plan and implement investigative procedures including asking questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and selecting and using equipment and technology;
(B) collect data by observing and measuring;
(C) analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence;
(D) communicate valid conclusions; and
(E) construct graphs, tables, maps, and charts using tools including computers to organize, examine, and evaluate data.
112.23(b)(8.4) The student knows how to use tools and methods to conduct science inquiry. The student is expected to:
(A) collect, record and analyze information using tools including beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, weather instruments, hot plates, dissecting equipment, test tubes, safety goggles, spring scales, balances, microscopes, telescopes, thermometers, calculators, field equipment, computers, computer probes, water test kits, and timing devices.
112.23(b)(8.6) The student knows that interdependence occurs among living systems. The student is expected to:
(C) describe interactions within ecosystems.
Learning Objective: Gain an awareness of the historical use of Westcave Preserve and the surrounding area by people and animals
TEKS
113.24(b)(12) The student understands the physical characteristics of the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries and how humans adapted to and modified the environment. The student is expected to:
(B) describe the consequences of human modification of the physical environment of the UnitedStates.
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