Day 15 of 30
The water cycle
Content is AI-assisted and continuously improved through educator review
Learning Objective
Students will be able to explore the water cycle.
In this lesson, we'll explore the water cycle. Scientific inquiry allows us to investigate and explain natural phenomena.
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below Earth's surface. Here's how it works: 1) Evaporation: The sun heats water, turning it into vapor (gas) that rises into the air. 2) Condensation: Water vapor cools and forms clouds. 3) Precipitation: Water falls back to Earth as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. 4) Collection: Water gathers in oceans, lakes, rivers, and underground. Then the cycle repeats! This cycle is essential for all life on Earth.
As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.
Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.
To examine systematically through observation and experiment
Observable facts that support or refute a claim
Instructions
Materials Needed
- Lab notebook
- Investigation materials
- Safety equipment if needed
Name the four main steps of the water cycle.
What causes rain?
Where does the water go after it rains?
Teaching Tip
For this age group: Balance direct instruction with collaborative activities. Allow students to explain their thinking and make connections to prior knowledge when exploring the water cycle.