What's In The Water

This lesson dives into the different kinds of pollutants, their origins, and solutions to eliminate those pollutants from vital waterways. Giving students and opportunity to develop ideas for change while understanding existing situations.

Grade Level: 6-12

Time: 25-60 minutes

Learning Standards: ESS2.C, ESS3.C, MP.4, SL2, W2

What we are Learning?

Both natural materials and contaminants get into waterways.
Some can be prevented, others cannot.
When contaminants get into waterways they can impact wildlife.
Contaminates in waterways can impact water quality.
What a watershed is.
What pollutions are.
The human connection to the water cycle
What point source pollutants are.
What nonpoint source pollutants are.

Materials Needed

13 4oz glass Jars
½ gallon glass jar or container
Carrying case or tote for materials
Tracking Sheet
Pippettes 8/10
Sediment- soil
Litter - Any discarded materials
Oil & Gas- Vegetable oil or sesame oil
Road Salt - Coarse salt
Animal Waste - Brown Modeling Clay
Fertilizer - Food Coloring (green)
Pesticide - Food Coloring (blue)
Untreated Sewage - Water with Toilet paper
Wastewater Effluent- Water with Soap
Microplastics - Desert Rainbow Sprinkles
Thermal Pollution - Food Coloring (red)
Acid Rain - Vinegar
PCBs - Maple syrup
Heavy Metals- Degradable Glitter
Slide deck or printed deck
Prezi
Water
Rags or paper towel for spills/clean up

How is it done?

What to Expect?

Students will learn a variety of vocabulary related to watersheds and pollutants.
Students will engage in observations based on real visuals representing pollutants in water.
Students will brainstorm solutions to preventing pollutants from entering waterways.
Students will understand how pollutants enter waterways in everyday ways.