Pairs of students may research a topic in depth, looking at the importance of water within that topic. Using ice, water, and boiling water, students describe the water cycle in terms of water's physical properties. As an extension students could represent how the water cycle works in the environment. Students visit a local water site, such as a river, lake, or ocean, and look for signs of human impact. The field trip could include a cleanup of the area.
Students mark storm drains to protect fish habitats.
Students use test kits to determine water quality. They demonstrate their scientific skills and processes when they use a variety of media to communicate the results of their investigations and act on their findings in a responsible manner. Skills and processes The teacher provides students with samples of fresh and salt water. The task is to experiment with the samples to determine their similarities and differences. Students demonstrate their understanding of fresh and salt water by representing their results in the media of their choice.