Taking the Pulse of a Changing Planet: Unit One

Unit Two: Ocean Circulation

Theme: Scientific Inquiry, Earth Systems Science Subject: Earth Science, Geography		Pulse People: Dr. Boicourt Dr. Herrington
Unit Concept: Ocean currents are formed by the force of wind as well as by temperature and salinity changes in the ocean. The oceans are also a very important part of the earth's climate control system. By absorbing, storing and releasing the sun's energy through its constant motion, the oceans have influenced our global climate. Observing systems will help us understand how the ocean can influence our weather in the shortterm and our global climate in the long-term.

Classroom Activity	Synopsis
Density Driven Currents from Horn Point Laboratory from University of Maryland Center for Environmental Sciences at Horn Point Laboratory	Students will perform density experiments in a small tank.
Gulf Stream Voyage: Locate the Gulf Stream Using RTD from CIESE © 2001	Students will use real time data to locate the Gulf Stream.
Enhancement: Understanding Ocean Circulation from NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration	Coriolis Game University of Illinois and EOA Scientific Systems ©2002	Students will use an interactive game to demonstrate understanding of the coriolis force.
	Sea Surface Height from A Visit to an Ocean Planet (NASA)	Students will observe and identify distinctive features in TOPEX/Poseidon-derived maps of sea surface height for each season. Students will understand how sea level change is largely controlled by heating (which causes higher sea levels due to thermal expansion of the water) and cooling of the upper oceans.
	Storm Surges from the National Hurricane Center	Students will observe an interesting graphical display of storm surge heights.
Field Trip: Ocean Weather Forecast from MA COSEE	Students will use CODAR data to demonstrate the influence of the coastal ocean on our weather.
Gulf Stream Voyage: Climate © CIESE 2001	Students will be able to determine if the Gulf Stream current has an effect on climate.
Enhancement: Create an Ocean Weather Forecast from COOL Classroom © 2003	Students will interpret data about ocean and atmospheric conditions to understand coastal upwelling--then use their knowledge and real data from the COOLroom to create an ocean weather forecast.