Misconceptions 

TASIR Project

Summer 2005

Dr. D.

Misconception: All Brands of Bottled Drinking Water Are the Same!

Participants will research the following questions using the internet:

--Is bottled water better than tap water?

--Is bottled water actually safe?

--How can I find out where my bottled water came from?

--How can I determine if bottled water is really just tap water?

--Is bottled water regulated?  

--What action can I take to improve bottled water safety?

--If I drink tap water should I use a filter and what type of filters are most effective?

--How can I obtain test results on my tap and bottled water?

Extensions: Activities related to water: Participants will play games and perform activities about water on the web:

http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/ - Activities and games for kids and teachers.

Water Treatment Cycle - An illustration of the water treatment process.

Drinking Water Bloopers - Embarrassing moments in the life of a water drinker.

The Water Cycle - A graphic of the water cycle.

Word Scramble - A fun game to print and play.

Water Facts of Life - Amazing facts about water.

Water Trivia Facts - Fun water facts continue - how long can you live without water?

Be Hydro-logical - Find out what you can do.

Participants will examine tap water as well as various brands of bottled water quality by analyzing quantitatively for:

--pH

--Hardness

--Chloride

--Bicarbonates

--Dissolved solids

--others

Wrap-up: Participants will analyze the data graphically then draw logical conclusions about the misconception.