Third Graders Learn about the Cumberland River Basin

by Lisa Preston, lower school naturalist

As part of their upcoming Land and Water unit, the third graders went on a journey to the Bridge Building downtown to learn from the staff at the Cumberland River Compact and see what they are doing to improve our quality of life through our water.
The students learned about Nashville's industrial beginnings and how the riverfront has changed over time. They got to witness a simulation of a flash flood with a model which shows how different surfaces can affect the watershed and ultimately the Cumberland River.  The model contrasts parking lots with green spaces and shows how environmentally-friendly designs can help capture and use the water.

We also learned that the amount of usable fresh water on the planet amounts to "a drop in the bucket" when compared to other water sources like the oceans, so it is an important resource to protect.
 
Another highlight of the day was understanding the delicate balance that our watersheds have on aquatic life.  The web of life reminds us that we are all connected and that every organism is affected when the health of our water is compromised.
 
The third graders left knowing ways that they can help preserve this precious resource so that it is here not only for them but for years to come.
 
It was a great day with a beautiful view of the Cumberland River and the Nashville skyline.
Back

More USN News

List of 3 news stories.

  • Spring sports season ends with podium finishes, trophies

    The girls lacrosse team ended its season in overtime to become state runner-up. Tennis players Carter Kojetin '29 finished as a state quarterfinalist, Sophie Oliver '26 and Mary Kate Adler '28 finished as state semifinalists, and Veer Kodali '29 and Max Parker '29 finished as state champions. Meanwhile, eight runners competed at the state track and field meet in Knoxville, where Griffin Davidson '27, Caleb Freifeld '28, Drew Zwerner '28, and Jack Fruin '27, sprinted to first in the 4x800m relay and Jack also placed first in the 800m dash.
    Read More
  • Interim Director Juliet Douglas roars with laughter as students hold photos of her on sticks during the High School Awards Assembly on Friday, May 8 in Durnan Auditorium.

    USN creates the Juliet Douglas Endowed Fund for Student Success

    For the entire USN community: an invitation to give in gratitude, in celebration, and in honor of the woman who has given so much to our school. Make a gift at usn.org/giving to support students with needs beyond tuition and honor Interim Director Juliet Douglas.
    Read More
  • The team poses for a photo after competing in the Middle School Quiz Bowl National Championships.

    Middle School Quiz Bowl competes at national championship

    The Middle School Quiz Bowl finished off another successful season with a trip to the Middle School National Championship Tournament in Chicago. The team fought hard and ended the season as a top-100 program in the country, finishing 75th overall. Congratulations to the team on a great performance and to Lucas Lupu ’31, named an All Star for being the fifth-highest scorer nationwide.
    Read More
Archive
USN Mission: 
University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.