Window Under Water

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Glare from the sun and ripples from the wind can make it hard to see what's below the surface of a body of water. In this outdoor activity, learners will make their own viewscope to look closer at what's living below the surface of ponds, streams, and lakes. Shallow bodies of water that aren’t murky work best. Learners are encouraged to use their new tool to observe and take photos of the same spot throughout the year to view change. Step-by-step instructions are included with photos along with safety recommendations. Activity guide includes a "What's going on?" explanation and relevant connections to tracking populations and pollution in aquatic environments.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Large plastic or metal container (see Materials Note)
  • Utility knife
  • Marker
  • Plastic food wrap or sheet of clear plastic
  • Large rubber band
  • Scissors
  • Plastic packing or duct tape
  • Black paint (optional)
  • Paintbrush (optional

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
      • Biosphere
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Seasons
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Plants
      • Animals
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
      • Human Impact

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see

Learning styles supported:

  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • DIY Science Apps

Rights:

  • , The Regents of the University of California, 2015

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, DRL1114663