This lesson focuses on the diffusion of gas molecules across the cuticle membrane of sea spider legs and the role body size plays in the ability of sea spiders to uptake gases. Students construct model sea spider legs of varying diameters and use them to investigate the relationship between surface area-to-volume ratios and diffusion.
Ice that forms in the polar oceans is an important driver behind the global climate. This ice is physically different from frozen precipitation in a number of different ways. In this brief inquiry activity, students make qualitative observations about two types of ice cubes and deduce ice composition based on their observations. This activity may serve as an introduction to
1) Why is it important to collect large quantities of research data?
2) How can photographing a subject be similar to scientific observation?
3) How can one plot photographic data on a map?
Introduction:
This lesson was written for a Photography I course, to be taught in a lab with access to either a darkroom or computers/printers. The
This student lesson focuses on plate tectonics and large-scale system interactions, utilizing PolarTREC teacher Brian DuBay's Transantarctic Mountains expedition videos.
Objectives: The student will investigate, make observations, and analyze geologic processes of plate tectonics.
Key concepts include:
a) how geologic processes are evidenced in Antarctic mountains;
b) tectonic processes (compressional, tensional, and transversal forces).
Adapted by Michelle Brand Buhanan for
The Dry Valleys region in Antarctica is known as the coldest, windiest, driest place on Earth. Beacon Valley is famous for its katabatic winds which can routinely knock fit adults and PolarTREC teachers to the ground. This lesson was created by PolarTREC teacher Jacquelyn Hams who experienced the cold and the full force of the winds in 2008