Where's the Water?

Introduction

It's easy to take water for granted. In most parts of the United States, every time you want to take shower, water a lawn, or fill a swimming pool, clean, fresh water runs out of the tap. In countries with substantial and stable infrastructure, freshwater is so available that many people don't realize how critical this resource is.

In this lab, you'll analyze data and interpret graphs and charts that show the distribution of the world's water. You'll develop a sense of where the world's water is, as well as where it's going.

Keeping Track of What You Learn

In these pages, you'll find two kinds of questions.

• Checking In questions are intended to keep you focused on key concepts. They allow you to check if the material is making sense. These questions are often accompanied by hints or answers to let you know if you are on the right track.
• Stop and Think questions are intended to help your teacher assess your understanding of the key concepts and skills. These questions require you to pull some concepts together or apply your knowledge in a new situation.

Your teacher will let you know which questions you should answer and turn in.