Help Train the Next Generation of Hydrogeologists!

Designed for grades 10-12, Aquifer Lab is the Groundwater Foundation’s interactive groundwater modeling software and curriculum that brings hydrogeology to life. Students use simulations, data, and real-world scenarios to investigate groundwater movement, aquifer characteristics, contamination risks, and water resource management. Aligned with NGSS standards, Aquifer Lab helps students build critical thinking and scientific modeling skills while exploring the vital role groundwater plays in communities and the environment.

Aquifer Lab Lesson Plans

Unit Lesson Plan Overview

This lesson sequence introduces students to groundwater as a critical freshwater resource and helps them build an evidence-based explanation for how contamination at one site can become a drinking-water problem for communities miles away. Across six lessons, students investigate aquifer structure, groundwater movement, wells, contamination pathways, and community risk, then apply their learning in a culminating scenario. It leverages Aquifer Lab materials and resources available through The Groundwater Foundation website.This lesson sequence introduces students to groundwater as a critical freshwater resource and helps them build an evidence-based explanation for how contamination at one site can become a drinking-water problem for communities miles away. Across six lessons, students investigate aquifer structure, groundwater movement, wells, contamination pathways, and community risk, then apply their learning in a culminating scenario. It leverages Aquifer Lab materials and resources available through The Groundwater Foundation website.

Download the Understanding Hydrogeology Lesson Plan Overview.

Individual Lessons

Flexibility for Teachers: This lesson contains recommended activities, formats, and durations, as well as linked videos and articles. This plan is designed with the intent to support a diverse range of class requirements and educator needs. All activities, lesson structures, and resources are proposed as general recommendations.

Teachers are encouraged to edit, adapt,