Water Overview

This series of five lessons begins by introducing the concepts of watersheds and wetlands. The first two activities allow students to predict, observe and explain the movement of water. Lessons 3 and 4 discuss the relative availability of freshwater on earth and why water quality is so important. In the final lesson, students have an opportunity to make their own decisions concerning water quality, land use, and the environment.

Lesson 1: Exploring Watersheds
Simulates the movement and pooling of water representing rivers, lakes and ponds in a watershed.
See: Lesson 1

Lesson 2: Wetland in a Pan
Demonstrates important wetland functions including filtering, flood buffering, and fish and wildlife habitat.
See: Lesson 2

Lesson 3: Water Quantity
Reveals the relative amount of surface fresh water available for human use.
See: Lesson 3

Lesson 4: What Makes Water Healthy
Helps students think about different ways to determine water quality.
See: Lesson 4

Lesson 5: Hydropoly: A Decision-Making Game
Requires students to make land use decisions that affect the environment, especially wetlands.
See: Lesson 5