Taking the Pulse of a Changing Planet » Unit Three
Unit Three: Ocean Critters

 

Theme: Systems and Interactions
Subject: Biology and Earth Science		   Pulse People:
Dr. Elizabeth North
Dr. Deidre Gibson
Unit Concept: The distribution of marine organisms is based in part on the temperature, salinity and currents in the ocean. Plankton in particular is at the mercy of the currents, which influence such things as the distribution of plankton’s larvae/eggs, and their reproduction. Scientists use temperature, salinity and current data from observing systems to better understand and predict the movement and distribution of marine organisms.
Classroom Activity Synopsis
Fish Tagging Game
from MA COSEE		 Students will explore a dynamic example of research scientists employing intriguing technology in an attempt to answer many unanswered questions.
“Hatch to Catch”
© Bigalow Laboratories		 Students will explore lobster larvae settlement by varying the depth, water temperature, and sediment bottom type.
Where could the stripers be?
from Dr. Elizabeth North		 Students learn about the relationship between striped bass habitat preferences and Chesapeake Bay physical conditions.
Circulate with the Critters
from MA COSEE		 Yellowfin Tuna Exploration
 Students will explore how water temperature effects distribution of yellowfin tuna.
  Beach Forecast
 Students will use ocean temperature and wave height RTD to predict a good beach day.
  Jellies and Drifters
 Students will predict using RTD how temperature and currents will effect the distribution of jellies.
Plankton Field trip
from MA COSEE		 Students will build their own plankton net and use it to collect plankton species. Students will sort and identify plankton species.
Gulf Stream Voyage: Fishing Activity
© CIESE 2004 		Students will analyze real-time data and images and learn how to interpret that data to make business decisions.
Gulf Stream Voyage: Plankton Activity
© CIESE 2004		 Students will be able to interpret chlorophyll a concentration maps and sea surface temperature data and use the data to determine concentrations of phytoplankton in the ocean.
WhaleNet Students will learn how to locate and track a satellite-tagged animal currently traveling in the ocean.
Larval Lobster Recruitment Students will learn how to interpret real-time data to predict areas where lobster larvae may thrive.