The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project

Water Quality Testing along CAP Lab

Water Quality Testing along CAP Lab

A 10th-12th Grade STEM Lesson

Maggie Mott

April 2024

Notes for Teachers

Preparation:

• Water Testing Kit

100 test strips in this kit

If possible, ask co-workers to help gather water samples from various points from the water system (the more spread out the more interesting).

Day 1:

• Using a map of the local watershed, students will need to trace their local water source back to its origin.Ensure that students are in the correct location and know the formal name of the local water source.
• History of CAP, Reservoir Capacities
• This varies based on location, but can lead to many discussions about equity of the amount and quality of the water available to others and what happens during droughts.
• CAP Virtual Tour & Map of CAP and water sample recording
• Vocabulary: please use whichever format is comfortable for your students (digital, notes, gamification, printed, etc.)

Day 2:

• You will need different water samples, please consider talking with your staff about collecting a sample from various locations that are further apart.
• Use similar practices for water collection here’s a Introduction to Water Sampling video for support.
• Ex: Someone that commutes 30+ mins East from work can provide a different sample than someone that lives 30+ mins West of work.

List of Materials

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Day 1:

Map of the Watershed, Brief history of Central Arizona Project, CAP map, CAP Virtual Tour

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Day 2:

Data Collection Sheet, Water Sample, Water Testing Kit, Map of where the sample came from, phone/computer for photographs

Science Standards

HS.E1.U1.14: Engage in argument from evidence about the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, changes in climate, and human activity and how they influence each other.

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HS. L2.U1.18: Obtain, evaluate, and communicate about the positive and negative ethical, social, economic, and political implications of human activity on the biodiversity of an ecosystem.

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Math Standard

A1.S-ID.A.1 Represent real-value data with plots for the purpose of comparing two or more data sets.

Objective(s):

Today we will study and record water quality readings by gaining an understanding of the significance of the readings along with the use of the correct vocabulary.

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Agenda

Two 55 minute class periods

Day 1:

Building Background: Map of the Watershed, Brief history of Central Arizona Project, CAP map

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Day 2:

Data Collection/Analysis: Data Collection Sheet, Water Sample, Water Testing Kit, Map of where the sample came from, phone/computer for photographs

Intro/Driving Question/Opening

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What is in the water? Students will test samples of water to see what is in our water seeking understanding of the healthy parameters and EPA recommended levels.

Hands-on Activity Instructions

Day 1 Procedure:

1. Using a map of the local watershed, students will need to trace their local water source back to its origin.
2. History of CAP, Reservoir Capacities
3. Map of CAP and water sample recording
4. Vocabulary

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Day 2 Procedure:

1. Where is my sample from? Find the area on the map and record its latitude and longitude.
2. Make general observations regarding the sample on your data sheet.
3. Using the water quality test strips, dip the strip into the water sample, wait for 2 seconds.
4. Gently shake off any excess water, and then compare test pads to the color chart provided.
1. Take a photo of the results on your test strip in comparison to the color sheet for reference.

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Hardness

Hydrogen sulfide

Iron

Lead

Manganese

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Mercury

Nitrate

Nitrite

pH

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Chloride

Chlorine

Copper

Fluoride

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Sodium

Sulfate

Total Alkalinity

Zinc

Assessment

Data collection, Comparison, and Analysis questions

Differentiation

Students can work through the mapping and water sample as a full class or in small groups.

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Teacher is able to help guide students through the vocabulary and the mapping.

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Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Brainstorm and implement strategies to reduce water pollution in a simulated environment.

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Engage students in a community-based project to raise awareness about water quality issues and advocate for clean water policies. Use water test kits in various areas throughout the watershed to collect data on local water quality and collaborate with local organizations or government agencies to address pollution sources and promote sustainable practices.