Introduction
One of the necessary things for life on this planet is water. How in the world do we not run out of it? Where does it come from? How do we get it? Do all of the places on the Earth have the same amounts? Your job is going to be to follow the steps in the water cycle to explain how water moves around the planet. In the end, you will write a short narrative to explain the water cycle.
Task
In groups of 2-3, you will use the web resources to learn about water and the water cycle. Once you answer all of the following process questions, you will write a narrative about a day in the life of Willie/Wilma the Waterdrop, describing all of the changes you might encounter in a typical day.
Process
Before you begin, click here and print the chart with the diagram and question blanks.
1. What is water made of? Draw a picture of a water molecule.
2. Fill in the water cycle chart.
3. Define the terms evaporation, condensation, precipitation, surface water and groundwater in complete sentences.
4. What is drinkable water? Why is most water undrinkable?
5. Compare the amount of Earth's drinkable water with the amount of undrinkable water.
6. Why do some places on Earth have less drinkable water than others?
Resources
Use these web sites to help answer the process questions.
Water
(excellent
starting point)
City Water
More
Water
BRAINPOP:
Water
Fresh
Water
Evaluation
Click here
to see how you will be evaluated on this project.
Conclusion
Congratulations!!! You are now an expert on the water cycle. I can't wait to read your interesting tales of world travel. If only I could get around that quickly!