Lesson Plan: Earth's Water
Grade Level: 5
Subject: Science
Duration: 30 Minutes
Objective:
Students will understand the distribution of water on Earth, the water cycle, and the importance of water conservation.
Materials:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector or smartboard
- Water cycle diagram handouts
- Chart paper and markers for group work
Standards:
- Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) - 5-ESS2-1: Develop a model to describe the movement of water through the Earth's systems.
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Begin by asking students how much of the Earth’s surface is covered by water. Write down their guesses on the board.
- Explain that approximately 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water.
- Introduce the key topics: The distribution of freshwater and saltwater, the water cycle, and the importance of conserving water.
Direct Instruction (10 Minutes)
Distribution of Water
- Saltwater vs. Freshwater:
- Explain that about 97% of the Earth's water is saltwater found in oceans, and only about 3% is freshwater.
- Discuss where freshwater is found: ice caps, glaciers, groundwater, and rivers/lakes.
The Water Cycle
- Introduce the water cycle: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.
- Show a diagram of the water cycle, pointing out each part with real-world examples (e.g., rain from clouds, water evaporating from the ground).
Group Activity (10 Minutes)
- Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with chart paper and markers.
- Ask groups to create their own water cycle diagram incorporating the following elements:
- Label the stages of the water cycle,
- Describe what happens in each stage (e.g., what causes evaporation),
- Include arrows to show the cycle’s flow.
- Each group will present their diagram to the class, explaining their understanding of the water cycle.
Conclusion (5 Minutes)
- Recap the key concepts learned during the lesson.
- Emphasize the importance of water in our daily lives and the need to conserve it.
- Ask students to think of one way they can save water at home.
Homework Assignment
Task:
- Write a short paragraph explaining why water is essential for life.
- Create a list of five ways to conserve water at home.
- Draw a simple diagram of the water cycle, labeling its parts.
Correct Answers:
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Example Paragraph:
Water is essential for life because it is needed for drinking, cooking, agriculture, and maintaining the environment. Without water, plants and animals cannot survive, and humans rely on water for many daily activities. It is vital for bodily functions and helps facilitate important processes in ecosystems.
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Example Ways to Conserve Water:
- Turn off the tap while brushing teeth.
- Take shorter showers.
- Fix leaks in faucets and toilets.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
- Collect rainwater for gardening.
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Water Cycle Diagram:
(Note: Students’ diagrams may vary. Acceptable answers should include labeled elements such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.)
Assessment:
- Observe group dynamics and participation during the activity.
- Review the completeness and accuracy of homework assignments.
- Provide feedback and encouragement, helping students understand the importance of both the science content and their role in conserving water.