PRIMRE/STEM/Resources/Ocean Currents

 STEM Resources

Ocean Currents

Source: Scripps Classroom Connection

Description: This unit introduces students to forces that force ocean currents and allows students to explore what thermohaline and wind-driven currents in the ocean look like and why they are important. The material should take 1.5 to 2 weeks to cover and culminates in an experience that allows the students to act as NOAA oceanographers, using a real NOAA model and their knowledge of ocean currents to remediate an oil spill.

Topics explored:

Students understand how ocean currents work by investigating density, the Coriolis effect and wind-driven currents through hands on activities. Students can relate density changes and wind to currents observable in the ocean. Students predict how changing conditions affect ocean currents. Using an actual NOAA simulation model and their knowledge of ocean currents, students will be able to design a response to a simulated oil spill.

Education Level

• High School

Resource Type

• Curricula, Pacing Guides, Lesson Plans

Subject

• Env Science

• Physics

Topic

• Energy Basics

• Environmental Considerations

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