In this 6-8 day investigation, students use a WebQuest activity to research the effects of melting sea ice in the Bering Sea Ecosystem. The students create research proposals to earn a place on the scientific research vessel Healy, and present their findings and proposals to a “Research Board committee”.
Students investigate how melting glacial ice affects sea levels by conducting an experiment comparing land and sea ice melt. They analyze predictions, record observations, and discuss the implications of rising sea levels, including regional variations and climate impacts.
Students investigate how warming seawater affects sea levels by measuring water expansion when heated. They analyze their results, discuss thermal expansion’s role in sea level rise, and explore the broader impacts of melting Arctic sea ice on climate and ecosystems.
Students investigate whether melting Arctic sea ice affects sea levels by observing an ice cube melting in a cup of water. They record predictions, analyze results, and discuss how ice displacement explains why sea ice melt does not raise sea levels, with extensions exploring water density differences.
Over 5-12 days, students synthesize their learning about ocean circulation, including the global thermohaline conveyor belt, through discussions, videos, and a culminating project. They analyze real or hypothetical ocean events, design an action project, and revisit their initial investigation to apply new concepts.