Exploring Our Watershed System

Requiring more than one class period, this resource takes earth science learners on a journey through a watershed. Using ArcGIS Explorer, an online geographic information system, they view maps of watersheds and surrounding landscapes....

Students compare recent and historic maps to explore landscape changes. Using photos provided, students identify prominent features on the maps. They discuss differences in landscape, human impact on watershed, and changes in natural...

Students investigate the San Francisco Bay Estuarine Research Reserve and watershed. In this estuary and watershed lesson plan, students complete 4 activities to better understand estuarine systems. They include studying the San...

Students build a physical model to simulate watershed features, then use Google Earth software to tie the model to a real place. By exploring several layers of map-based images and data, students learn the complexity of a watershed and...

NOAA Smart Buoys collect and transmit real-time weather, water conditions, and water quality data. Chesapeake Exploration gives teachers and their students unprecedented access to lessons designed around real-time observational data from...

Learners study watersheds and examine how they are composed.  In this watershed system lesson students explain how water enters a watershed and the concept of stream order. 

Ninth graders study and identify the six major drainage systems in Pennsylvania.  In this watershed lesson students read an article, complete an activity and take a quiz on what they learned. 

Learners gather information about a restored wetland, pebble beach, and lava flows at Sugarloaf Cove on Minnesota's North Shore. Students in the field will make observations using field notebooks and digital media equipment while...

Students explore the impact natural events have on the environment, specifically the wetlands. They view a video about the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the Mississippi Delta and answer discussion questions.

Students identify where their water sources and explore a watershed on a map.  In this watershed lesson students walk a wetland, and identify sources of pollution.