Measuring Stream Discharge: A Precalculus Field Exercise (UMAP)

This module consists of a set of four collaborative field-based exercises and labs. All of the materials derive from efforts to estimate, measure, and model the flow of a local stream. During the course of these four sections, students work with quadratic equations to model the stream flow; in making their discharge estimates, they are introduced to Riemann sums, a central concept that they will encounter in later calculus courses.

Table of Contents:

PROJECT INTRODUCTION: WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE
The Hydrologic Cycle
Watersheds
Discharge

LAB 1: THE WATER FALLING ON A WATERSHED
Map Analysis

LAB 2: MEASURING STREAM DISCHARGE
Background
Methods
Materials and Preparation
Instructions for Data Collection and Analysis
Stream Discharge Worksheet

SIMPLE MODELS OF STREAM DISCHARGE
A Linear Model
A Quadratic Model

APPENDIX: INSTRUCTIONAL OVERVIEW
Introduction
Pedagogical Issues
Project Introduction
Lab 1
Lab 2

REFERENCES

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