This unit teaches students about the water cycle with a focus on how Tucson benefits from the Colorado River and CAP (Central Arizona Project Aqueduct). Students learn about the Hohokam people and the importance water had to their community. Students then learn about the Agua Nueva Reclamation Facility and how the reclaimed water is bringing back the Santa Cruz River. Students also do a water quality lab where they test their own tap water from home. Each lesson in the unit can be taught alone or alongside other lessons.
- Objective (each lesson has learning targets)
- Students will make a model of the water cycle and explain how it happens.
- Students will be able to explain Tucson's water history from the Hohokam to adding water back to the Santa Cruz River.
- Students will be able to describe what is found in their drinking water and explain if their water is safe to drink.
- Grades: 7, adaptable for 5 to 8
- Time: Individual lessons vary
- Author: G Matzkin
Arizona Standards Engaged
7.E1U1.5 Construct a model that shows the cycling of matter and flow of energy in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
Teaching Slides
Lesson 1: Where Can Water Be Found?
Learning Target: I am learning where water can be found on Earth.
Slides: 3 to 16
Lesson 2: The Water Cycle
Learning Target: I am learning about the water cycle and its importance for all living things.
Slides: 17 to 24
Lesson 3: The Grand Canyon
Learning Target: I am learning about the Grand Canyon and its importance to Tucson.
Slides: 25 to 41
Lesson 4: The Colorado River, Central Arizona Project (CAP)
Learning Target: I am learning about the Colorado River, Central Arizona Project (CAP), reclaimed water and its importance to Tucson.
Slides: 42 to 47
Lesson 5: Tucson's Groundwater
Learning Target: I am learning about Tucson's groundwater so I can appreciate the water I drink.
Slides: 48 to 49
Lesson 6: Santa Cruz River
Learning Target: I am learning about the early years of the Santa Cruz River and how it has changed over time.
Slides: 50 to 55
Lesson 7: How Agua Nueva Reclamation Facility Is Rebuilding The Santa Cruz River
Learning Target: I am learning about the early years of the Santa Cruz River and how Agua Nueva Reclamation Facility is doing to rebuild the Santa Cruz River.
Slides: 56 to 62
Lesson 8: Tucson's Water History
Learning Target: I can explain and create a timeline about Tucson's Water history.
Slides: 63 to 68
Lesson 9: What Is In My Tap Water?
Learning Target: I am learning what is in my tap water so I can appreciate what Tucson Water does.
Slides: 69 to 77
Lesson 10: Turtles In The Santa Cruz River
Learning Target: I am learning about the turtles that live in the Santa Cruz River.
Slides: 78 to 83