A discovery session considering the causes and cures of water pollution. Intended for Pr 4-5 classes, related to the Renfrewshire guidelines for science. P4-Unit 1, lessons 1-3 and P5-Unit 1, lessons1 and 2.
This activity is available throughout the year and is independent of the weather.

Attainment Outcome: Earth and Space
Strands: Materials from Earth and Changing Materials

Learning Outcomes

To explain why conservation of water is important.
To give examples of common causes of water pollution.
To understand the concept of water pollution.

During the 40-minute discovery session, the demonstrator will enable children to examine and measure the characteristics of various samples of polluted water and use a video microscope to view and photograph the microorganisms that they contain. Methods of waste treatment and water purification will be discussed and demonstrated in a number of simple practical experiments involving filtration, chemical and biological treatment.

Associated resources:

Self-guided visit to ongoing experiments with the museum building which include a model reed bed, methane digester and other microbial cultures.

Self-guided "river trail" to our conservation and pond-dipping area using worksheets and equipment provided by Almond Valley. Samples collected can be examined in the resource area

The water quality of the River Almond has improved since the decline of traditional industries. The main threats to the health of the river are now:
a.) Acid mine drainage from disused mine workings and the associated leaching of toxic aluminium ions. This can be treated using settling tanks and chemical neutalisation
b.) Run-off from industrial area containing oils, rubber and brake dust. Increasingly new factory and housing developments include reed beds and managed wetlands to reduce this pollution
c.) Input of significant quantities of treated sewage adding to the nutrient load of the river and leading to oxygen depletion (eutrophication). Sewage is treated by encouraging microorganisms to break down waste materials in processes such as trickling filters and activated sludge plants in which air is introduced, or methane digestion which takes place in the absence of air.

Health and Safety: No water samples will be used that have a risk of faecal contamination or have been cultured in a way to promote the growth of potentially pathogenic organisms. Pupil contact with water samples is minimal and no hazardous chemicals will be used. All activities will follow guidelines for good practice contained in" Be Safe!"www.ase.org.uk