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Water Fix Lab

Science for Clean Water

Grades 4-6

Overview

In Water Fix Lab, students investigate how water can be cleaned by designing and building their own filtration systems with materials like sand, gravel, cotton, coffee filters, and plastic bottles. As they test different filter layers, observe changes, and collect evidence, students explore matter, Earth resources, and the engineering design process. This toolkit helps students understand how science can support access to cleaner water and healthier communities.

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Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Investigate properties of water and mixtures.

  • Explore how filters separate materials.

  • Design and test a water filtration device.

  • Collect and analyze observations and measurements.

  • Apply engineering design to improve a solution.

  • Communicate scientific explanations using evidence.

TEKS Alignment

Texas 5th Grade Science TEKS Alignment

TEKS 5.1: Scientific and Engineering Practices

TEKS 5.6: Matter and Energy

TEKS 5.10: Earth and Space

TEKS 5.12: Organisms and Environment

Classroom Use
  • Small group activity (4–5 students per group)

  • Each kit contains materials for up to 30 students.

  • Ideal for 1 class period (approx. 45 minutes)

Materials
  • Plastic cups

  • Gravel or small rocks

  • Sand

  • Cotton balls

  • Coffee filters

  • Dirty water sample (soil, leaves, small particles)

  • Rubber bands

  • Measuring cups

  • Observation/data sheets

Request a Toolkit

For Houston-area teachers, we are offering free environmental education toolkits. Reach out and we will send your classroom one of our toolkits complimentary.

The Environmental Youth Council, a program of Environmental Defense Fund, empowers the youth of Houston to use their voices as catalysts for change in their communities. We equip students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to advocate for a healthier, more sustainable future. 

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©2026 Environmental Youth Council, All Rights Reserved.

The Environmental Youth Council, a program of Environmental Defense Fund, empowers the youth of Houston to use their voices as catalysts for change in their communities. We equip students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to advocate for a healthier, more sustainable future. 

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