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
Dr. Jacqueline Grebmeier presents an overview of the arctic ocean ecosystem. She outlines the key environmental factors influencing arctic marine food webs and discusses recent changes in biogeochemical cycles, biodiversity, migration and range of species, and general ecosystem health in the region.