In this introductory lesson, students read an article about Arctic Ocean ecosystems and then play a board game in which they take on the role of researchers.
Objectives
The purpose of this introductory activity is to:
* Identify the main components of complex arctic ecosystem and describe predator/prey relationships between phytoplankton, ice algae, zooplankton, bowhead whales, polar
Students will build a simple plankton net from a nylon stocking, then (optionally) use it to collect plankton in ponds, lakes, streams, bays, oceans, or even aquariums.
Adapted from Kolb, James A. Project Director. Marine Science Center. Marine Science Project: FOR SEA. Marine Biology and Oceanography, Grades Seven and Eight. Poulsbo, WA. Page 341 -
344.
To learn about the effects of air pollution on Sea Ice. This can be a library/computer lab-based activity.
Procedure
Teacher:
1. Mix up a 3.5% solution of NaCl. Make enough "sea-ice" cubes for each pair of students
2. Make another class set of ice cubes with tap water. Leave the ice in the freezer until after the
Follow the Polar Expedition is a booklet designed for students to help them learn about the 2012 Chukchi Sea Offshort Monitoring in the Drilling Area (COMIDA) Hanna Shoal Ecosystem Study with PolarTREC teacher Deanna Wheeler. The expedition is August 5-25, 2012, aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter.
The booklet has terms used on the ship as well as several activities
Beyond Penguins and Polar Bears is an online magazine created to assist elementary school educators teach lessons about the polar regions.
From the website:
This blog is focused on helping elementary teachers become more knowledgeable about the polar regions and providing best practices on how to integrate polar concepts into their teaching. Ideas for connecting science and literacy through literature
The NOAA Teacher at Sea Program sends teachers out to sea on Coast Guard ships. They have published several children's books about the teachers' adventures. The books include basic information about the ships, oceanography, climate, and the environment. Each book has a glossary and is illustrated with beautiful pictures. You can download a pdf copy to use right now and
This website is the research website for snow and ice research in both the Arctic and Antarctic. You will also find Education links along with the latest detail in polar research.