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This activity is a field investigation where students determine the area of the school yard, develop methods to investigate runoff, and explore potential impacts .
This virtual simulation includes using an online mapping tool [Google Earth] to note impervious surfaces and calculate area of the local school site or other area, and researching local precipitation using National Weather Service data. You will determine your location in the watershed and discuss potential impacts on local water bodies, then propose ideas to mitigate impacts.
Bird's Eye View of Your Site
Bird's Eye View of Your Site
For the virtual version of this activity, locate your site (school, park, yard - any area of land near you will work) using Google Earth.
Look at the satellite view of your site. How is the land used? Is it paved? Covered by buildings? If it has vegetation, what kind(s)? What are some questions you might ask about what happens to precipitation that falls on this area, and potential impacts on the land and nearby waters. Answer the questions on page 1 of the Jamboard.
Highlighted study area using satellite image
Water Vocabulary Matching
Water Vocabulary Matching
There are several terms used when discussing what happens to water when it lands on the surface of the land and the various factors that affect whether it soaks in or runs off and more.
Play the Where Does Water Run vocabulary matching game.
Calculating and/or Locating Data
Calculating and/or Locating Data
In Google Earth, you can select the measure tool and draw a shape around an area of land. Google Earth will calculate the perimeter and the area of the shape you draw. (see photo)
How would you determine the volume of water that leaves your site during a 2-inch rainfall event?
Where does that water go?
What information do you need to find these answers?
Where might you get the information?
Create a new page on the Jamboard and add a screenshot of your site from Google Earth if possible. Post your responses to the questions in the previous bullets. [Note: You can copy the sample on page 2 of the Jamboard.]
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