What made this a good model?

example: The model was small and I could see all the areas easily.

 

In what ways was this NOT a good model?

example: There were no trees in the model.

 

What might be better ways to model watersheds?

example: Maybe clay would be better than paper.

 

More questions:

• Why do you think you might want to use a model to study something like a watershed?
• What are other models we use often? Is a map a model? Is a math problem a model? Is a teddy bear a model?
• Can you think of other people besides scientists who might use models?
• How might a model help predict floods? Landslides? Whether buildings would withstand strong earthquakes?