Activity

Global water perspectives

We all use water, but where we come from influences how we use this resource and taonga.

Infographic of Earth and need for water

Everyone uses water

Water is a universal need, but many people around the world experience water shortages, water scarcity and a lack of access to clean, safe drinking water.

Rights: iimages, 123RF Ltd

This cross-curricular activity uses infographic texts to compare water challenges, water use, abundance and supply in Aotearoa New Zealand, Kenya, India and China.

This activity is part of a suite of resources that support Smart Water – a context for learning, which provides students and teachers with opportunities to connect with water and learn more about drinking water in the Waikato region. The science and mātauranga concepts that underpin Smart Water are transferable to other locations in Aotearoa New Zealand.

In this activity, students learn about water availability and water stress around the world. They consider water availability, use and supply in different countries and reflect on New Zealand’s situation.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • contrast water use and availability around the world

  • describe New Zealand’s water resources, use and supply compared to other countries.

Download the Word file (see link below).

Nature of science

This activity uses infographics to explore water availability and supports students to practise the science capability ‘Interpret representations’.

Published: 11 May 2022