Fruitvale

Background: Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water for most rural and many urban communities. In this unit students investigate an area in which test wells have indicated the presence of unsafe levels of a pesticide in the groundwater. They learn about factors that affect groundwater movement and are introduced to methods of expressing concentration levels as parts per million. Students then apply this knowledge as they attempt to locate the source of groundwater contamination in the town of Fruitvale, sampling the groundwater using simulated test wells. Working in groups, the students sample data to identify the contamination source and establish a safe boundary. Finally, students will role-play a town meeting in which information is presented to the citizens of Fruitvale, who must then decide on a plan to clean up the contaminated area.

Lancaster High School Geology students in Mr. Hayhurst’s class will be required to make and turn in final lab report with their data and analysis. This should be a professional style report. It should be typed. If a student wishes to use a computer at school he/she may do so, but will have to make arrangements with the teacher/computer lab at school. We expect this to be a large portion of their semester grade; therefore, they should keep up with this project on a daily basis and give it the time needed to turn in a professional looking report packet.