Water Body Salinities I

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In this activity, learners investigate the different salinity levels of oceans, rivers and estuaries. Learners then use experimentation to determine which sample is the best model of each type of natural water source. The first test, for conductivity, shows learners that a water sample with the right salinity can even be used to light a bulb or ring an electric buzzer. The second test, for evaporation, shows how rate of evaporation is affected by salinity level. This activity can be followed by Water Body Salinities II from the same resource. Includes background material.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 7 days
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • student journals and writing tools
  • 3 1000-mL graduated cylinders or 2-liter soda bottle
  • distilled water
  • kosher salt
  • balance
  • roll of insulated wire
  • wire stripping tool
  • large state map
  • NJ outline map (in student journal)
  • colored pencils
  • 1 cup opf water
  • 3 16-oz cups
  • 9-volt battery
  • small light bulb or buzzer w2 insulated wires attached
  • masking tape or alligator clips
  • one 12-inch length of insulated wire (ends stripped)
  • 2 popsicle or craft sticks
  • aluminum foil
  • 3 9-oz plastic cups
  • permanent marker

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Energy Flow and Chemical Cycles
  • Physical Sciences
    • Electricity and Magnetism
      • Electric Circuits
    • Chemistry
      • Chemistry of Life
      • Solutions
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
      • Changes of Phase
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Asking Questions
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • 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:

Source Collection

  • Science After School Consumer's Guide

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, State of New Jersey, 2006

Funding Source:

  • No Child Left Behind Act of 2001