This series of lessons will help grade 3-5 students to understand how natural resources are impacted by human actions through observation, inference, and the use of scientific tools and data. Students will act as Dr. Ortiz’s assistants to help find out why the water in Lake Erie is polluted. They will examine real water samples from the lake, using tools to see how they compare to other bodies of fresh water. NASA satellite images will be used to help the students make observations and inferences about water quality. Students will research and evaluate their predictions using technology and NASA articles. Finally, the students will create an action plan to make a difference and share their findings with Dr. Ortiz. This hands-on approach to science content will support a high level of engagement and intrinsic motivation to learn. Language arts standards are integrated with science standards in this problem-based science unit. Student learning will be assessed through work samples and an observational checklist, updated throughout the unit of inquiry.