This lesson incorporates techniques and experimental designs used by researchers during the Southern Ocean Diatoms PolarTREC expedition and during post-expedition laboratory analysis. This guided inquiry lesson provides students the opportunity to explore photosynthesis and primary productivity using techniques to measure chlorophyll levels.
Objectives
SWBAT:
1. Use models to predict chlorophyll levels in the global oceans
2. Identify
Understanding Physical and Chemical Parameters of Ocean Water Using CTD Profiles
Overview
A focus of the PolarTREC Southern Ocean Diatoms expedition was to collect water samples and physical profile data using oceanographic technology. Oceanographers rely on the real-time data transferred from the water column to the ship-based computers using a CTD sensor. The CTD measures conductivity (salinity), temperature and depth
PolarTREC alumni Alex Eilers created this mini-exhibit about Antarctica for the Pink Palace Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. The exhibit highlights a variety of topics as well as Ms. Eilers personal experiences in Antarctica. Topics explored include: dressing for the cold Antarctic climate, research on the Weddell seal, the history of human exploration in Antarctica, and extreme facts about the coldest
This article describes the work of a team of scientists using the latest in satellite tag technology to track the movements of the Weddell seal over the Antarctic winter. The project hopes to learn more about the animals as well as the ocean environment in which they swim.
Excellent interview and accompanying video about studies of Weddell seals in Antarctic. UC Santa Cruz marine biologist Dan Costa travels to Antarctica to study the winter foraging ecology of Weddell seals through the use of sophisticated satellite tags and physical examinations. Video footage and an interview with participants has been included here.
PolarTREC teacher Nell Herrmann writes a compelling article for Town and Gown, the local newspaper in her home town of State College, PA. Nell reports on her adventures with a team of scientists in Antarctica and the profound way in which her journey has influenced her both personally and professionally. Note: The online article starts on p. 50 of the
Listen in to this radio interview on National Public Radio's program, "All Things Considered" with PolarTREC teacher Nell Herrmann. Nell describes her excitement about traveling to Antarctica and her role in a study of Antarctic seafloor organisms and their response to changes in water acidification and temperature. Nell outlines her plans for sharing the research team's findings with her students
Article about PolarTREC teacher Nell Herrmann's expedition to Antarctica written by her former student. The article was published in The Lion's Digest, her school's newspaper in State College, Pennsylvania.