Watershed Investigations

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....

Maybe you've seen land that is covered in water, not deep enough for a lake or pond, but deep enough that the water stays throughout the year. This area is called a wetland, and during a five-day activity, learners investigate wetlands,...

Students examine the major paths of water on the Earth's surface, and to investigate the many factors that contribute to those paths. Students demonstrate their understanding of a watershed by identifying the defining features of a...

Students investigate nutrient concentrations in lake water. In this biological communities activity, students experiment with nitrogen and phosphorus cycles using real life situations.  Students discuss watersheds, runoff, and both...

Learners 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...

High schoolers explore the components of a watershed and the factors that affect it. They read a topographical map and use geometry to determine the area of a watershed. Students estimate the volume of a body of water and perform runoff...

High school students examine their own water-based environments, within the Mystic Watershed. As the learners engage in inquiry-based, hands-on projects, critical thinking skills and problem-solving, the project will lead them to cross...

Students connect the water cycle concept with local fresh water availability and consumption. They identify waterways in their own region. Students define, predict, research, and map local watershed areas. They research the positive...

Students are taught that a watershed is, what types of basic land cover are impermeable and permeable to water. They trace the flow of water around their school and around their home. Students determine what watershed their school is a...

Students use GIS mapping software to analyze the health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. They create and develop maps highlighting the watershed's problematic areas. After assessing environmental factors, they survey the watershed's...