How Are Microplastics Getting Into Our Rivers and How Does That Relate to Land Use?

MARCH 2021

This infographic, created by USGS (U.S. Geological Survey), explores where microplastics are found in U.S. waterways, the known risks of microplastic pollution, and how these plastics are getting into our rivers. Data is also given that compares the microplastics data for the river water samples collected at various locations to land-use types found at those same sampling locations to determine if there seemed to be any patterns in the data. 

Use the interactive graphs to explore how the number of microplastics in rivers relates to land use. Are there any patterns in the data that you can see?

Students

  1. After viewing the map above, think about these three questions:
    • What do you notice?
    • What do you wonder? What are you curious about that comes from what you notice in the map?
    • What might be going on in this graph? Write a catchy headline that captures the main idea. If your headline makes a claim, write what you noticed that supports your claim.
    The questions are intended to build on one another, so try to answer them in order. Start with “I notice,” then “I wonder,” and end with “The story this map is telling is ….” and a catchy headline.
  2. Next, join the conversation by adding to the discussion below. (Students 13 and older are invited to comment, although teachers of younger students are welcome to post what their students have to say.)
  3. After you have posted, read what others have said, then respond to someone else by posting a comment. Use the “Reply” button to address another student directly.
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