K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
The Ocean – Waves, Tides and Currents

Learning Objectives

  • Describe how ocean waves are formed and what causes them to break.
  • Explain the role of gravitational forces in creating tides and their impact on coastal environments.
  • Identify the differences between surface currents and deep ocean currents, and understand their causes.
  • Discuss the significance of ocean currents in regulating Earth's climate and supporting marine life.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by exploring the vastness of the ocean and its diverse ecosystems. Discuss how the ocean covers more than three-quarters of the Earth's surface and its importance to our planet.

Go to the Lesson

Introduce the concept of ocean waves, tides, and currents, and their significance in shaping coastal environments and supporting marine life.

Direct Instruction

Explain how ocean waves are formed by wind energy and what causes them to break near the shore.

Discuss the role of gravitational forces in creating tides and their impact on coastal environments.

Identify the differences between surface currents and deep ocean currents, and understand their causes.

Guided Exploration

Watch the video 'The Ocean' to explore the different habitats within the ocean and understand the adaptations of marine life.

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Engage with the video 'Why Our Oceans Matter – Quiz Edition' to learn about the significance of oceans in regulating Earth's climate and supporting life.

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Hands-On Activity

Conduct an experiment to model ocean currents using water, food coloring, and ice cubes to demonstrate how temperature and salinity affect water movement.

Use the 'Modeling the Ocean Floor' assessment to create a model of the ocean floor and compare it with actual features.

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Independent Practice

Have students research and present on how ocean currents influence the migration patterns of marine animals like humpback whales.

Check for Understanding

Engage students in a discussion to review the causes of waves, tides, and currents, and their impact on Earth's climate and marine life.

Review and Reflection

Reflect on the importance of the ocean in regulating Earth's climate and supporting biodiversity. Discuss any new insights gained from the lesson.

Assessment and Extension

Use the 'Water Around the World' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of different water sources and their characteristics.

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Encourage students to take the unit quiz to test their comprehension of the lesson topics.

Try the Quiz

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