Calculation of Stream Discharge

Bruce Rueger
,
Colby College
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Summary

This lab is a field oriented exercise that visits two sites on the same stream to calculate stream discharge. It illustrates the influences of stream cross-sectional area on discharge and the resistance of bedrock in forming waterfalls. Students learn how to locate themselves using topographic maps and hand held GPS units. The lab also focuses on stream geomorphology and terminology.

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Context

Audience

This exercise is used in an introductory physical geology course {Earth and the Environment).

Skills and concepts that students must have mastered

Essentially all they need to know how to do is basic math and have some basic skills using topographic maps.

How the activity is situated in the course

Because of the weather, this activity is done early in the semester (in the Fall) and late in the semester (in the Spring).

Goals

Content/concepts goals for this activity

The primary goal is for them to understand the concept of stream discharge. Ancillary goals include understanding the components of a stream and stream flow, use of topographic maps and GPS units for navigation, and collecting and utilizing data in the field.

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

The higher order thinking skills for this activity include accuracy of measurement, field observation and analysis of data.

Other skills goals for this activity

Students learn how to measure stream depth and how to use a velocity meter. They also learn how to use a GPS device. They work in groups to collect the data.

Description of the activity/assignment

This is a field based exercise that exposes students to streams as a major agent of erosion and to methods of quantifying stream discharge by collecting data in the field. Students also apply basic navigation skills by using hand-held GPS devices and plotting longitude and latitude of the field sites under investigation.

Determining whether students have met the goals

Students collect and record data in the field. They then use the data to determine stream discharge. They present their results in a lab report.

More information about assessment tools and techniques.

Teaching materials and tips

Other Materials

Supporting references/URLs

http://www.sciencecourseware.com/VirtualRiver/