Pascoe Vale Girls' College

Summary of program

The aim of the water unit was to deliver an interesting and engaging interdisciplinary program at Year 8 level that focused on water education. Involving the Science and Humanities disciplines at Pascoe Vale Girls’ College, students participated in a range of activities, which helped them understand the importance of water in their lives and in the environment.

The unit was focused on the following topics.

What is water?

• Properties
• Structure
• Uses

 Where does water come from?

• Water cycle
• Water catchment
• Water supply

  Water quality

• Water quality testing – our local waterway, Westbreen Creek
• Purification of drinking water
• Development over time – Melbourne
• Water around the world

 Wastewater

• Stormwater
• Sewerage treatment plants – excursion to Western Treatment Plant

 Water conservation and sustainability

• Water pollution and the effect on water ecosystems
• Recycled water – issues

 Community involvement

• Local (school) – water wardens
• Environmental club
• Friends of Westbreen Creek

Outcomes of program

Through enquiry, investigation and reflection, students increased their knowledge, awareness and appreciation of water as a precious resource.

Students based their investigations of water on our local waterway, Westbreen Creek. This was used as a springboard for a deeper understanding of the role and importance of water in ecosystems and society, in the past and present day.

As a result of their studies, students became better informed, socially active members of the school and wider community, and well-equipped with the skills and knowledge to impact on sustainability issues that are affecting them today and will continue to affect them in the future.

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