The Story of Water: Complete video series

Primary

Year F-2

Year 3-4

Year 5-6

Lesson plan

Worksheet

Video

Science

Geography

Water cycle

Water supply

Saving water

Waterways

Wastewater

Water! Our most precious resource and the fuel for all life on this planet, but how much do you really know about this miraculous molecule?

In this four-part series, you will learn all about water, the water cycle, waterways and stormwater, and drainage. Feel free to watch the videos in order or individually - it's up to you!

To assist with your lesson preparation, when you click on the links, below, you will find suggested activities for your class to complete. Plus, there are downloads for your use.

Image of a land slice and a person explaining the story of water. They are wearing glasses and a green sweatshirt

Episode 1. The water cycle

The water cycle, or the hydrologic cycle, describes the continuous movement of water around the Earth. Learn about the water cycle's key processes and how this cycle has been altered. Find out what you can do to protect this resource so there is enough water for everyone.

Episode 2. Wastewater treatment

When wastewater leaves homes and businesses, it is piped to a sewage treatment plant. The treatment of sewage (wastewater) is important.

Episode 3. Water and waterways

A network of stormwater pipes has been built across our country to remove this excess water when it rains. Stormwater pipes are different to the pipes in our homes. When it rains, water in our streets flows into stormwater drains, along with any rubbish or pollutants in the street.

Episode 4. Water, weather and climate

The amount of water in our environment is influenced by the climate. Across Australia, there are six broad climate zones. The climate in Australia, like the rest of the world, is changing due to global warming. Climate change also impacts the amount of water we have available to us. There is only a set amount of water on Earth, and this precious resource needs to be protected.

Learning outcomes

Year F-2

Describe the observable weather of a place and seasonal changes using the water cycle
Know that water is a valuable resource and describe how it is used at school and in the home
Know that water can be recycled and describe ways to reduce use and save more water
Know that water is an important resource and we need to conserve it
Describe how our water supply supports people's lives

Year 3&4

Explain how water can be a liquid, solid or gas using the natural water cycle
Understand the different sources and uses of water and that wastewater can be recycled
Identify where tap water comes from and know what happens when it goes down the drain
Identify the importance of water to sustaining the lives of people

Year 5&6

Understand the connection between weather and climate and the water cycle
Explain how water behaves in different ways (liquid, solid or gas) using the natural water cycle
Understand that water scarcity is a major threat to the sustainability of people places
Understand how water resources are used and how they are managed
Know that the sustainability of Melbourne requires water and treatment of wastewater