Water in Our Lives

Water in Our Lives extends the learning from the fourth grade FOSS Water science module that Shoreline School District uses. It makes learning about water personal and relevant for students. Five lessons, conducted by students on school grounds and in the classroom, help them answer the following overarching questions:

·         What happens to water when it falls to the ground?

·         How do we use water in our everyday lives?

·         What behavior choices can reduce the amount of water we use so this limited resource is sustainable for the future?

Students learn about watersheds and impermeable surfaces, go on a rainy day schoolyard walk, get practice conducting an outdoor science investigation, conduct water audits of their school, analyze the school’s water bills and consider how to conserve water.

About Our Programs

Watershed Ecology/Elementary Programs

~ Ecosystems
~ Land and Water
~ Tiny Neighbors
~ Watershed Gardens
~ Water In Our Lives

Community Mapping Programs

~ Green Mapping
~ Water and Community
~ Mapping My Area

Exploring Place Programs

~ Thornton Creek Long Walks
~ Community Education

Testimonials

“The students enjoyed and benefited from the outdoor hands-on activities.  They were thoroughly engaged in the percolation tests where we were able to take a closer, ‘real life’, look at variables and why they are important in science.”

--Matt Reiman, 4^th grade teacher, Meridian Park Elementary

“After the audits, students have been looking at toilets around their house and elsewhere to see how much water each flush uses.  Also, students have been talking with our principal about leaky faucets they noticed when we were doing the bathroom sink audit.  Students are working out a plan for our high water bills during the summer months.  It is fun to watch them get super excited about this activity!”

--Annie Saran, 3^rd/4^th grade, Meridian Park Elem.