Ep 8. Episode 8

SciGirls is a PBS Kids show that aims to inspire young girls to engage with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). In season 2, episode 8, the SciGirls are on a mission to save a local lake from pollution.

The episode begins with the team of SciGirls, led by their mentor, getting a tour of the lake and realizing that it's not as healthy as they thought it was. They see litter and trash floating on the surface, discolored water, and a foul smell. They are devastated by the sight of such a beautiful lake being polluted, and they vow to do whatever it takes to bring it back to its previous state.

The team starts by conducting research on the sources of lake pollution. They discover that much of the pollution comes from runoffs from nearby housing developments, which carry pollutants like fertilizer, pet waste, and pesticides into the lake. The team also learns that water from a nearby industrial park flows into the lake, which is another source of pollution.

To understand the severity of the situation, the team conducts further tests. They take water samples from different parts of the lake and test them for pH, chlorine levels, and other indicators of pollution. They also use a Secchi disk to measure the depth of the lake, which helps them better understand the ecosystem at the bottom of the lake.

After analyzing the test results, the SciGirls come up with a plan to reduce the amount of pollution in the lake. They decide to install rain gardens that will capture rain runoff from the housing developments and filter pollutants before the water flows into the lake. The team learns about the importance of native plants and how they can help soak up excess water and filter out pollutants. They also learn about the science behind rain gardens and the creatures that inhabit them, like dragonflies and butterflies.

The team then goes to work building the rain gardens. They dig up parts of the lawn at the housing developments and plant native plants, compost, and mulch. They even create rain barrels to collect rainwater, which they use to water the plants during dry spells.

As the rain gardens start to bloom, the team observes the effect they have on the water quality of the lake. They take more water samples and see a marked improvement in the pH levels and overall water clarity. The team is thrilled to see the results of their hard work and dedication and is ready to continue their fight against lake pollution.

Towards the end of the episode, the SciGirls reflect on their project and its impact on the lake and surrounding wildlife. They talk about how their project not only helped reduce pollution but also created habitats for animals like birds and insects. They express their desire to continue working to make a positive impact on the environment and the world around them.

In conclusion, SciGirls season 2 episode 8 takes viewers on an inspiring journey to save a local lake from pollution. The episode showcases the importance of STEM education and how young girls can make a real difference in their communities. With its engaging story and relatable characters, this episode is an excellent resource for parents, teachers, and all those interested in promoting STEM education among young girls.