Science on the River: a hands-on STEM unit!

Description

Why Choose Wild Earth Lab?

Drawing on my environmental science background, I create accurate, engaging resources that make teaching easier. Original, thoughtfully designed visuals and hands-on activities help bring the real experience of being a scientist into your classroom.

Age Range

This unit is designed to be adaptable for a range of ages, with activities and materials that can be adjusted to meet different learners’ needs. It is suitable for learners from middle school through high school and works well with mixed-age groups.

What’s Included?

(39-page PDF file)

• PART 1: INTRO AND STREAM ANATOMY:
  • • Introductory reading
    • River research project
    • Stream diagram – cross section
    • Stream diagram – map view
    • Unlabeled stream diagrams for student practice
    • Vocab list
    • Vocabulary matching worksheet
• PART 2: CHANNEL TYPES AND DRAINAGE PATTERNS:
  • • Channel types poster
    • Drainage patterns poster
    • Channel types 3-part cards
    • Drainage patterns 3-part cards
    • Channel types information cards
    • Drainage patterns information cards
• PART 3: STREAM MEASUREMENTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:
  • • Stream measurements introductory reading
    • Stream field trip worksheets (identify the drainage patterns, channel types, and stream anatomy you learned about so far)
    • Instructor guide for outdoor hands-on lab activities
    • Student handouts for outdoor hands-on lab activities:
      • • Measure stream velocity (speed)
        • Where does the water flow fastest?
        • Calculating stream discharge (volume of water per time)
        • Advanced challenge questions (calculations)
    • Stream discharge calculation handout w/ diagram & equations
    • Gaining & losing streams handout (groundwater)
• PART 4: HYDROGRAPHS & CLIMATE CHANGE:
  • • Graph interpretation activity
    • Graph sketching activity
    • Reflection questions
• Teacher materials: directions and answer keys
• Access to additional online materials: background information and more ways to expand on this topic.

Good to Know

• Single-classroom use: Materials are for personal and single-classroom use only and may not be shared or distributed. Contact me about multiple licenses for schools or organizations.
• Digital product: This is an instant PDF download, designed for printing on standard 8.5 × 11-inch paper. Due to the nature of digital products, purchases are non-refundable.
• Adult supervision: Activities should be completed with appropriate adult supervision.
• Terms & Conditions: See the full terms & conditions.