Understanding oceans
http://school.discoveryeducation.com/lessonplans/programs/oceans/index.html
A lesson plan for Grades 9–12 Earth/Environmental Science
About this resource
- Appropriate grades
- 9–12
- Subjects
- science (meteorology, oceanography)
- Provider
- Discovery
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Although this activity is geared for 6-8th graders, the authors have included some modifications for older students, as well as, discussion questions. This activity is a jumping off point in the discussion of how ocean currents are created.
This activity stresses the following:
- All the oceans on Earth are really one “world ocean.”
- Warmer water from the oceans around the equator rises to the top, while colder water from the oceans around the poles sinks to the bottom.
- Ocean currents are caused by the rising and sinking of warmer and colder water.
- Ocean currents affect weather and life all over the globe.
North Carolina Curriculum Alignment
Science (2005)
Grades 9–12 — Earth/Environmental Science
- Goal 4: The learner will build an understanding of the hydrosphere and its interactions and influences on the lithosphere, the atmosphere, and environmental quality.
- Objective 4.02: Analyze mechanisms for generating ocean currents and upwelling:
- Temperature.
- Coriolis effect.
- Climatic influence.
- Objective 4.02: Analyze mechanisms for generating ocean currents and upwelling:
