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Science · Ages 11-14

Watershed Field Study

Six missions tracing rainfall, runoff, habitats, and stewardship. Science for ages 11–14; allow 45–60 minutes. Choose a safe route near a stream, pond, or drainage area before hosting. Photos earn participation credit; no water sampling or entry is required.

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A shallow creek winding through tall grass toward a wooden footbridge.
Audience
Science · Ages 11-14
Duration
About 60 min
Players
Teams of up to 4
Standings
Hidden during play

Mission outline

6 missions and 12 tasks, shown as players read them. Answer keys stay in the builder.

  1. Mission 1

    Follow the Slope

    Stay on a safe path. Look uphill and downhill, then predict where rain would travel. Compare your predictions before answering.

    • PhotoPhotograph a slope and point downhill to show the likely direction of runoff.
    • Multiple choiceWhat mainly pulls surface runoff downhill?

  2. Mission 2

    The Ground Test

    Compare a paved surface with nearby soil or planted ground. Observe without digging or pouring anything onto the surface.

    • PhotoCapture a paved surface and a planted surface in one photo, or photograph their boundary.
    • Multiple choiceWhich surface usually lets more rain soak into the ground?

  3. Mission 3

    A Route to the Water

    Look for a gutter, drain, ditch, or channel from the path. Do not lift covers or enter drainage structures. Discuss where its water might go.

    • PhotoPhotograph a visible drainage feature from a safe distance. If none is visible, photograph a path rain could follow.
    • Multiple choiceWhat is a watershed?

  4. Mission 4

    Living Banks

    Observe plants beside water or along a drainage area. Stay back from steep or slippery banks and leave plants rooted.

    • PhotoPhotograph plants that could slow runoff or hold soil in place.
    • Multiple choiceHow can plant roots help a stream bank?

  5. Mission 5

    Evidence, Not Guesswork

    Observe water from a safe path, or examine a puddle or damp ground. Describe what you can actually see. Never taste or touch water to test it.

    • PhotoPhotograph one visible clue about water movement or appearance, such as ripples, sediment, or a damp patch.
    • Multiple choiceCan clear-looking water alone prove that it is safe to drink?

  6. Mission 6

    Protect the Watershed

    Identify one way people could reduce pollution or slow runoff here. Discuss a practical action without handling litter or entering the water.

    • PhotoPhotograph a place where a rain garden, planted buffer, or well-placed bin could help, or an example already in use.
    • Multiple choiceWhich action helps keep pollution out of runoff?