Watershed Model Activity Questions

Annika Sweeney from the Whatcom Conservation District demonstrates a hands-on watershed lesson. Participants set up a tarp to simulate a watershed, create peaks and valleys, and use markers to draw features like streams and ridges. They add toys to represent various elements within a watershed and discuss potential pollution sources. The lesson includes simulating rain to observe runoff and concludes with a cleanup process. The video encourages critical thinking and creativity while teaching about watersheds and pollution.

What is the first step in setting up the watershed lesson?

• Gathering participants around the tarp

• Introducing the concept of a watershed

• Pouring water on the tarp

• Drawing ridge lines on the tarp

What should participants do after stepping onto the tarp?

• Pour water to simulate rain

• Discuss potential pollution sources

• Start drawing on the tarp

• Begin to scooch forward to gather the tarp in the middle

How should participants identify streams and valleys on the tarp?

• By placing rocks to form boundaries

• By pouring water and observing flow

• By using different colored toys

• By using markers to draw them

What is the purpose of adding toys to the watershed model?

• To create obstacles for water flow

• To make the model more colorful

• To represent various elements like cars and trees

• To weigh down the tarp

What should participants discuss after adding elements to the watershed?

• The height of the mountains

• The number of toys used

• The potential sources of pollution

• The color of the tarp

What is the next step after identifying pollution sources?

• Discussing the importance of watersheds

• Cleaning up the toys

• Simulating rain with a watering can

• Drawing more features on the tarp

What should participants observe when simulating rain?

• The size of the tarp

• The number of toys on the tarp

• The flow and ponding of water

• The color of the water

What is the final step in the watershed lesson?

• Drawing additional features on the tarp

• Cleaning up the toys and tarp

• Discussing the results of the rain simulation

• Adding more toys to the tarp

Why is it important to pour the water from the tarp into a bucket?

• To prevent it from entering storm drains

• To reuse the water for another activity

• To clean the tarp more effectively

• To measure the amount of water used

Where can participants find more information about their local watershed?

• By visiting a local library

• By reading a textbook

• By checking the whatcomcd.org website

• By asking their teacher