Water is precious. It is also easy to take for granted. Many people recognize that water is scarce in desert areas, but it is harder to realize that places like Massachusetts could face a shortage of pure drinking water. This guide is designed for seventh and eighth grade science and social studies teacher. The lessons require 5 to 10 class periods. The materials call for active students involvement in classroom and home assignments. Suggestions for involving parents and the community are also included. The guide contains: (1) key concepts and learning objectives for five core lessons; (2) instructions for conducting the five core lessons with copy masters; (3) science and social studies supplements to specific lessons, to expand the core learning experiences in either discipline; (4) lesson extension questions for further investigation; (5) an optional activities section, which includes more ideas for science and social studies and suggestions for special projects; (6) a resource section, which lists the names, addresses, and phone numbers of water related agencies in both public and private sectors, and appropriate films; and (7) a bibliography. (CW)