About classroom visits
We encourage teachers and students to get to know their water system. We have a number of activities available that cover topics ranging from water quality to water pressure and water conservation to fish. Activities are free of charge and are provided on a limited basis. We are also able to tailor activities to meet your needs and interests.
Please email waterbureaueducation@portlandor… to request a visit.
In your email, include the following:
- Activity that you are interested in
- Name of your school or program
- Age range and number of students
- Schedule preference
- Name of contact
- Best way to reach you
Classroom activities we offer
Tap water testing
Students will test their own tap water or compare tap water quality to bottled water quality. Tests include turbidity, chlorine, total hardness, and pH. Minimum time commitment of 1.5 hours (2 hours recommended.) Grades 4–12.
Water tasting
Students will evaluate taste, odor, and color of various water samples through investigation, analysis, and explanation. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 4–12.
Home water audit
Students will learn how to use water audit kits to assess their indoor or outdoor water use and find ways to reduce it. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Activity continues as a week-long assignment. Grades 2–12.
So You'd Like to Be a Salmon?
Students will experience firsthand the difficult obstacles that face salmon and steelhead in the Bull Run River. Learn what we can do to ensure we have plenty of water for fish and for people. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 2–8.
Groundwater model
Students will learn about groundwater anatomy and observe groundwater movement in our physical groundwater model. Learn about Portland's vital backup and emergency water supply. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 2–12.
Hydraulic gradeline model
Students will learn about water pressure, pressure zones, and hydraulic gradeline by observing this physical model and making predictions about what water will do under various pressure conditions. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 5–12.
All the Water in the World
Students will test their knowledge about the distribution of fresh water throughout the world. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 4–12.
So Little Water
Another worldwide water distribution activity for younger students. This is a demonstration of water distribution with student observation and discussion. Minimum time commitment of 20 minutes. Grades 1–4.
Water system overview
Students will receive an overview of the water system, either by video, slide show, or booklet. Students will understand how and where water travels from the Bull Run watershed to their faucet. Minimum time commitment of 30 minutes. Grades 3–12. Slide show: Grades 6–12.