Solving the Problem Rubric

After completing the experiment, address the following on your webpage in narrative (paragraph) form. Your
goal is to convey what you have learned by teaching the content to the readers of your website. You want to
explain the limitations of simply removing the phosphates chemically (such as how you did in the experiment)
and advocate for another method to reduce phosphates in the Chesapeake Bay.

1. Explain the process that you used to remove the Na3PO4 from the simulated Bay water sample,
including what chemical you used to achieve this and why it was selected. Support your explanation
with a balanced chemical equation. (10 points)
2. This experiment used a chemical means to remove the phosphates from the simulated Bay water

sample. Conduct research into a nonchemical means to reduce the amount of phosphates in the Bay.
Compare the two methods, including a discussion about effectiveness and feasibility. Which method is
better for improving water quality? Support your answer using data from your experiment and data
related to your nonchemical method from your research. (10 points)
3. Organize your responses to be clear and concise. Use correct grammar, spelling, and citations. Where
appropriate, support your responses with multimedia, such as videos or images, including these items

in your discussion. (5 points)

Peer Review

1. The process and procedures of the lab were well explained, as well as an introduction to explain the
purpose of the lab. The group stated their choice to mix Copper Sulfate with Sodium Phosphate, as well
as explaining why using the correct scientific vocabulary. A chemical equation was present and correct.
2. Chemical and non chemical means of filtration were discussed and compared for similarities and
differences. Effectiveness was discussed, however there was little coverage in feasibility beside time-
saving comparison. It is recommended to do more research on the convenience of each method. With
the comparison, the better method was clearly stated and explained. Data from the experiment should
be present for support.
3. This section is overall organized and clear with correct grammar and spelling. Multimedia forms such as
pictures should be included with an explanation.

Reviewed by Jillian Mikutsky, Mary Kay, and Keara Sax

Good job!