Curriculum and Instructional Resources

Middle Grades 6-8

5 Units (31 Learning Experiences) with mini-Action projects after each Unit, culimating in a full Action Project at the end. These Units are a deep dive into understanding of the interconnected and complex relationship of water amongst humans, the natural and the built environment in the local context of Philadelphia. These Learning Experienes are Just like water — starting with a drop, or trickle can become a flowing stream, joining other flowing bodies of water, gaining momentum for oceans of learning!

1. Water in Our World

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF WATER? Explore water in our world, the natural water cycle (the hydrologic cycle) and how it interacts with the land to define a watershed. Cultivate a basic level of appreciation for water before exploring the next topic, how Philadelphia sources, manages and treats our freshwater to provide clean and reliable tap water.

Unit 1 Learning Experiences

2. Drinking Water and You

WHAT DOES IT TAKE FOR US TO DRINK A GLASS OF FRESH, CLEAN, DELICIOUS WATER? Students will develop a basic understanding of safe and reliable urban water systems, infrastructure and management of drinking water (supply). For over 200 years, Philadelphia has committed to access to a clean drinking water supply as a civic responsibility for the public good.

Unit 2 Learning Experiences

3. and beyond: Coming Summer 2026

(Original) Middle Grades Units 1-6

This series of 6 extensive units was part of the original development of the curriculum, designed, tested and implemented with classroom teachers to explore the development of the city’s drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems as well as ways to act

(Original) Middle Grades Units