Investigating Water Quality and Conductivity

The video tutorial explores electrical conductivity and its role in assessing water quality. Students learn to build circuits and create a low-cost EC sensor using simple materials. They analyze local water samples to identify potential pollutants and discuss the impact of fertilizers on water sources. The lesson emphasizes the collaboration of science and engineering in environmental protection and encourages students to become active environmental stewards.

What is the primary focus of the lesson plan introduced in the video?

• Learning about the water cycle

• Studying the chemical composition of water

• Investigating electrical conductivity and its impact on water quality

• Exploring the history of water supply systems

Who collaborated to develop the lesson plan over the summer?

• Two local history teachers

• A group of environmental scientists

• A team of electrical engineers

• Two local STEM teachers

What is the purpose of building an analog electrical circuit in the lesson?

• To measure the temperature of water

• To determine if materials allow or stop the flow of electricity

• To create a light show

• To power a small motor

What do students use to demonstrate the impact of salt on water conductivity?

• A magnet and a glass jar

• A metal rod and a battery

• Copper tape and a plastic cup

• A thermometer and a beaker

What device do students build to replicate a commercial EC sensor?

• A water pump

• A sensor using a drinking straw and stainless steel wire

• A wind turbine

• A solar panel

What role do students take on when collecting local water samples?

• Community health workers

• Water quality inspectors

• Stream team volunteers

• Environmental scientists

What is the main environmental challenge discussed in the conclusion of the lesson?

• Air pollution

• Global warming

• Fertilizers entering water sources

• Deforestation

What data set do students use to visualize the impact of fertilizers over time?

• NASA climate data

• World Health Organization statistics

• USGS data set

• Local weather reports

How does the lesson plan portray the collaboration between science and engineering?

• As a means to protect water resources

• As a method to improve agricultural yield

• As a way to build new technology

• As a strategy to reduce energy consumption

What active role do students learn to take in the environment?

• Becoming wildlife conservationists

• Becoming stewards for the environment

• Becoming urban planners

• Becoming environmental policy makers