Download A Grave Mistake

International Center for Leadership in Education
Gold Seal Lesson Template
Author(s):
Adapted by: Amy Amick
Presented by: Joy T. Boswell
SC Department of Natural Resources
Project WET Curriculum and
Activity Guide
Grade Span
K-4
5-8
9-12
XXX
XXX
Lesson Title:
A Grave Mistake
A
ICLE Application Model
B
C
XXX
D
Instructional Focus:
Number Operation and Concepts
Students use number, number sense, and number relationships in a problem-solving situation. Students
communicate the reasoning used in solving these problems.
Measurement
Students use a variety of tools and techniques of measurement in a problem-solving situation. Students
communicate the reasoning used in solving these problems.
Algebraic Concepts and Relationships
Students use algebraic methods to investigate, model, and interpret patterns and functions involving
numbers, shapes, data, and graphs in a problem-solving situation. Students evaluate and communicate the
reasoning used in solving these problems.
Statistics and Probability
Students use statistics and probability to analyze given situations and the results of experiments.
Students communicate the reasoning used in arriving at a conclusion.
Problem-Solving and Mathematical Reasoning
Students apply a variety of problem-solving strategies to investigate and solve problems from across the
curriculum as well as from practical applications.
Performance Task
Objectives:
Students will analyze data to trace the flow of contaminants in ground water.
Students will conclude that past solutions, developed with the best of intentions, may create
temporary problems.
Materials:
Glass baking dish or clear plastic lid from a salad container used by fast-food restaurants
Sand
Grape-flavored drink powder
Spray bottle
Sharp pencils
Copies of the Community Map
Procedure:
Follow steps listed on page 313 of the teacher’s notes in the handouts.
Helpful HINTS:
Have your students draw a crosshair grid on the community map to help them estimate
where the wells were located.
Have your students shade in the plume formation after all the data is given to them.
This may help them see how the water flowed in the community.
ICLE Essential Skills
Perform operations with signed (positive and negative) numbers, including decimals, ratios, percents, and
fractions. (m 1)
Understand the characteristics of parallel, perpendicular, and intersecting lines. (m 2)
Understand the best procedures for statistical data collection, organization, and display including making
estimates and predictions and drawing inferences. (m 5)
Understand the characteristics and applications of the undefined terms of geometry (i.e., point, line, and
plane). (m 6)
Know the components and properties of the rectangular coordinate system, (i.e., x - y axis, origin,
quadrants, abscissa (x-coordinate) and ordinate (y-coordinate), and the general representation of a point
(x,y)). (m 23)
Use direct proof and indirect proof sequencing techniques to reach a conclusion. Direct proof uses the
Laws of Reasoning to create an orderly arrangement of steps leading to a conclusion. Indirect proof uses
an initial assumption that the conclusion is false, and through a series of logically sound reasoning steps
the statement may be proved otherwise. (m 32)
Scoring Guide:
Develop what works with your students and your grading practice.
Keywords
English Language Arts
Reading
Mathematics
Algebra
Science
Earth Science
Computation
Coordinates
Correlation
Direct Variation
Estimation
Graphs
Manipulative
Writing
Geometry
Algebra
Manipulatives
Life Science
Relationships
Communications
Statistics
Chemistry
Literature
Calculus
Physics
Other
Trigonometry
Other
Charts
Data Analysis
Data Collection
Data Display
Graphs
Prediction
Sampling
Simulations
Tables
Other
If you have a Picture, Chart, or Graph that has special formatting, please identify the
name of the file(s) in box below. Also attach a copy of the file(s) with this disk.
Picture, Chart, or Graph file name(s):
Handouts: Project WET “A Grave Mistake” Teacher Notes (pp. 311 – 314)
Community Map (student worksheet)
“Old Cemeteries, Arsenic, and Health Safety” article by John L.
Konefes and Michael K. McGee