Water Thematic Unit

Overview


Lesson Overview: Children in developed countries such as ours i.e. the United States of America,  sometimes find it very difficult to visualize and understand the need to conserve water and relate to problems and hurdles faced by children in less fortunate countries who sometimes have to struggle to get access to a single glass of clean water. The following Thematic Unit utilizes Technology to help children become aware of the importance of water in our lives, the need to conserve water and understand issues both within the US and globally relating to water scarcity, pollution and sanitation

Curriculum subject: Mathematics, Geography, Science, Geography, Language Arts, Arts and PE

Curriculum Objectives:
Idaho State Standards for 5th grade
Mathematics
  • 5.M.1.2.7- Uses a variety of strategies to solve real life problems.
  • 5. M.2.1.2- Estimate volume (capacity) in real world problems using Standard Units. Capacity is measured in cups, quarts and gallons
  • 5. M.5.1.1- Read and interpret tables, charts, bar graphs and line graphs.Collect organize and display the data with appropriate notations in tables, charts, bar graphs and line graphs
Science
Standard 5 – Personal and social perspectives
  • Goal 5.3: Understand the importance of natural resources and the need to manage and conserve them.
  • Goal 5.1: Understand Common Environmental Quality Issues, Both Natural and Human Induced
Geography
Standard 2
  • Goal 2.1: Analyze the spatial organizations of people, places and environment on the earth’s surface
  • Goal 2.2: Explain how human actions modify the physical environment and how physical systems affect human activity and living conditions
Physical Education
Standard 5: Personal and Social Responsibility
  • Goal 5.1: Exhibit responsible and social behavior that respects self and others in physical activity settings.
Language arts
Goal 1.2: Acquire Concepts About Text
  • 5. LA.1.2.3 - Use the features of texts, such as formats, graphics diagrams, illustrations, charts,maps, and organization to find information and support understanding
Goal 1.8: Vocabulary and Concept Development
  • 5. LA.1.8.3 - Use words and concepts necessary for comprehending math, science, social studies, literature and other Grade 5 content area text.
Goal 2.1: Acquire Strategies and Skills for Comprehending Text.
  • 5. LA.2.1.3 - Draw valid conclusions based on information gathered from text and cite evidence to support the conclusion.
In addition improve presentation and communication skills.


Technology Standards:
  • 1a. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes.
  • 1b. create original works as a means of personal or group expression.
  • 1c. use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.
  • 2a. interact, collaborate, and publish with peers, experts, or others employing a variety of digital environment and media.
  • 2b. communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats. 
  • 2c. develop cultural understanding and global awareness by engaging with learners of other cultures.
  • 3a. plan strategies to guide inquiry.
  • 3b. locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media.
  • 3c. evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks.
  • 3d. process data and report results.
  • 4c. collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions.
  • 4d. use multiple processes and diverse perspectives to explore alternative solutions.
  • 5a. advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible use of information and technology.
  • 6b. Select and use application effectively and productively.

Grade Level:  5th Grade

Estimated time: 4 to 5 weeks

Essential questions:
  1. What percentage of our planet is covered with water?
  2. How much of that is suitable for human consumption?
  3. How much water do you consume in a week?
  4. Where does the water you use come from?
  5. Do all countries have access to clean water?
  6. What are the water scarcity problems faced by other countries?
  7. What have you learned from your search till now?
  8. What are the ways you can conserve water starting at home?
  9. Why is it important for everybody to be aware of this issue?
  10. How would you spread awareness?