Students from 15 Sydney region primary schools got their hands dirty last term by taking part in the second Grime Scene Investigation (GSI) as part of World Environment Day.

The project, coordinated by the Observatory Hill Environment Education Centre (EEC), integrates Stage 3 science and technology and environmental education through an investigation of catchments, estuaries and ecosystems in highly urbanised areas.

GSI works in three stages: an initial web-based research project; a field trip to an estuary of the Georges River in Sylvania; and the final report presentation.

Working in teams, the Years 5 and 6 students took on roles as ecologists, environmental scientists, water quality chemists and biologists.

Marton Public School teacher Julie Flavell said the project’s hands-on approach, such as analysing water samples under a microscope, was a highlight.

“Suddenly it all came to life – they could see these creatures (plankton) in the water where they didn’t think there was anything,” Mrs Flavell said.

The students also dissected fish to investigate the difference between a carnivore and herbivore.

“They got into it like you wouldn’t believe. I was so proud of the way they were doing the dissection so well,” she said.

Mrs Flavell said GSI had helped students become more environmentally aware.

“Now they understand that if something goes down the gutter at home, this is where it ends up,” Mrs Flavell said.

This is the first year GSI has worked with primary students. Observatory Hill EEC principal Paulene Dowd said the project, funded by a Sydney Catchment Management Authority grant, was an outstanding example of innovative school programming in resource management.

“The project leads to a better informed student body and a better cared for environment,” Ms Dowd said.