Groundwater and Human Interaction Model Activity: Mammoth Cave National Park

Discover the wonders of underground water flow with our groundwater model, designed specifically for middle and high school students. This interactive and educational model brings the science of the water cycle and cave formations to life, offering a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that is perfect for classroom settings. Inspired by the fascinating geology of Mammoth Cave National Park, our model provides an accurate and engaging way to understand groundwater processes.

Groundwater is an important subject to cover in any general science or earth science class when you discuss the water cycle and/or the hydrosphere. In this activity, students will learn about groundwater, karst areas, permeable and impermeable materials, water table, saturated zone, unsaturated zone, wells and human interaction with groundwater. These topics are learned as students study a specific area of Mammoth Cave National Park.

In this activity, students will receive a seven-page packet. The first two pages are reading passages about the topics listed above. Then, students will follow the provided directions to create a 3D model of an area of Mammoth Cave, including Echo River, the Green River and the River Styx (two of which are underground). They will also add a well and stalactites and stalagmites to their cave.

Finally, students will use their models and the reading passages to answer ten analysis questions. For example: "Describe the zone of aeration and the saturated zone." "What would happen to the Mammoth Cave system if pollution is introduced at the headwaters of the Green River?" "Why is it important to study groundwater?" and more.

There are teacher tips provided to help you as you direct your students through this activity.

This product includes:

1. Teacher Directions-including prep info and materials needed  

2. Teacher Procedure

3. How to Make the Model Directions (with Pictures)

4. Student Packet- reading passage, model directions, model pages and analysis questions 

5. Answers to Student Packets

6. Teacher Tips

7. Websites and Citations

To do this activity, you will need:

• Pencil

• Copy of “Groundwater” packet for each student (INCLUDED)

• Scissors

• Coloring Utensils

• Stick Glue and/or Tape

• Optional: Calculator (for basic subtraction)

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If you have any questions, feel free to email me at edventureswithmrsd@gmail.com.

Thank you!