This model is made in a clear plastic tub. The tub holds the sand & pebble layer, plus smaller and larger rocks.  A top representing a vegetated surface goes on top, and it is perforated so that surface water can infiltrate into the ground. There's a hole in the surface layer for a feature which can represent a pond, a basin, or even a sinkhole. There are 2 empty containers in the model which serve the important role of taking up space so the model doesn't need so many rocks, which are heavy!  A large garderner's measurement syringe is used as the pump to draw from the well. Spray bottle pumps frequently fail, and this alternative seems pretty reliable. 

 It takes a little imagination and some explanations. But these pics give you some idea of the version 1.0 model.  And hopefully with some use and experience we'll get good ideas for improvements.