K–12 Learning
Educational Resources
These activities and resources are a fun way to learn about the MWRD and how to protect the water environment.
Things to explore:
Activities
Where Does IT Go?
62-page booklet
English • Español • Polski • Chinese
“Where Does IT Go?” tells the story of three young water explorers who travel in a magical ship through Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) pipes, sewers and tanks that are used to clean dirty water.
Animated Video
English • Español • Polski • Chinese
The award-winning children’s animated feature is educational entertainment for students enrolled in grades four and up. It teaches viewers about the wastewater treatment process and introduces them to careers in the water sector.
Future Water Industry Professionals
dual-language activity sheet
English • Español
Have you ever considered a career in the water industry? The MWRD has over 250 different types of jobs. Find out what they are in this fun word search!
Work in Water as an Engineer
4-page activity sheet
English
Learn how MWRD engineers help design a stormwater playground in this fun STEAM activity sheet.
Multiplication Chart: 0 – 12
4-page activity sheet
English
Math can be fun, and multiplication plays a key role in many math equations and problem-solving. This multiplication table goes up to the 12s! Students in all grade levels may find this resource useful, but it is especially helpful for students in grades 2 – 4.
Multiplication Chart: 0 – 20
4-page activity sheet
English
Math can be fun, and multiplication plays a key role in many math equations and problem-solving. This multiplication table goes up to the 20s! Students in all grade levels may find this resource useful, but it is especially helpful for students in grades 4 – 8.
Water Treatment Process Maze
dual-language activity sheet
English & Español
Send dirty water to be cleaned in this fun water treatment maze!
Periodic Table of Elements
2-page activity sheet
English
From chemical reactions to filtration systems, the Periodic Table of Elements is the unsung hero behind every drop of clean water.
Additional Resources
Communities In Schools of Chicago
MWRD is a proud partner with CIS of Chicago, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting high school graduation in the city. Through participation in community events, classroom presentations, and ongoing CIS training, the MWRD community education team is committed to inspiring Chicagoland students to reach for success.
If you are interested in the MWRD connecting with your students and community via our programming opportunities that promote protecting the water environment and introducing careers in water, please email public.affairs@mwrd.org.
Current – River Lab
River Lab is a free STEM curriculum for high school students, developed by Current with support from the Walder Foundation. High school students will dive into this water-focused virtual field trip where they will be introduced to water quality parameters, discover the Chicago River, and explore real science data.
WaterSense Kids – US EPA
When it comes to saving water, everyone can help—and kids can make a big difference! Learn about water conservation for kids—and adults!—at WaterSense!
Curious City: The complex journey of Chicago sewage beyond the toilet
A kid-friendly look at what happens after you flush the toilet in the Chicago area. Produced by Curious City, where WBEZ answers your questions about Chicago, the region and the people who live here.
