Irrigation Ideas

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In this activity, learners explore how civil engineers solved the challenge of moving water via irrigation. Learners work in teams of "engineers" to design and build their own "irrigation system" out of everyday items. Learners must move two cups of water at least three feet and result in a split of one cup of water in each of two containers. They test their irrigation systems, evaluate their results, and present findings to the group.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Student Resource Sheets
  • Student Worksheets
  • Water basin and water for testing irrigation systems
  • Straws
  • Cardboard or paper cups or bowls
  • Clay
  • Tubes
  • Aluminum foil
  • Rubber bands
  • Tape
  • Jars
  • Toothpicks
  • Glue
  • Paperclips
  • Plastic piping
  • Other materials as needed

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Agricultural Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
    • Technology
      • Agriculture and Biotechnology
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
    • Motion and Forces
      • Gravity
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science and Society
      • Risks and Benefits
      • Ethics
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Gardening
  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, IEEE,