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Earth science · Grades 6–8

Stream Table Changes

How does water flow affect erosion in a model stream?

The lesson

What students do

A trail crosses a stream bank. Use a model to compare how different water flows move sediment.

  1. Build the same sloped sand channel for each test.
  2. Run water through the channel for 30 seconds.
  3. Collect and measure the moved sediment.
  4. Rebuild the channel and repeat at each flow rate.

For teachers

Standards connections

This short investigation supports parts of these standards. It does not cover the full standard by itself.

MS-ESS2-2Use a model to explain how water can change Earth's surface.

PracticeDevelop and use a model; analyze results.

Big ideaStability and change

Included results

Where the results came from

Classroom model results included with ConductClass

These are model results, not measurements from a real stream.

Science source: NGSS Middle School Earth's Systems

Included

Ready for one class period.

Student instructions Included results Chart choices and calculations Teacher notes and review guide

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