EARTH SCIENCE - OCEANOGRAPHY - THE OCEAN BASINS

The first section of our oceanography unit introduces students to the global ocean, it's exploration, divisions and sea-floor characteristics. Students will gain an understanding of the vastness of ocean systems, the forces that continually reshape the ocean basins and an appreciation for the value of further exploration. During this section students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of the following concepts by way of tests, labs and written assignments.

Idea's for further study: Compare and contrast inorganic and organic sediments. Create a two or three dimensional map of the worlds oceans. Create a two or three dimensional map of ocean basin features. Research the extent to which energy resources are being utilized from the worlds oceans and the effect of such on the ocean environment. Make a model of the continental sloped demonstrating the effect of turbidity currents. Present political viewpoints regarding the effect of off-shore drilling and it's effect on local economies/environments.

Mastery of the information presented in this section assists students in their preparation for F.C.A.T. testing by reinforcing the following Sunshine State Standards.

• Strand A, Standard 1: Understand that all matter has observable, measurable properties.
• Strand B, Standard 2: Understand the interaction of matter and energy.
• Strand C, Standard 1: Understand that types of motion may be described, measured and predicted.
• Strand C, Standard 2: Understand that the types of force that act on an object and the effect of that force can be described, measured, and predicted.
• Strand D, Standard 1: Recognize that processes in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere interact to shape the Earth.
• Strand D, Standard 2: Understand the need for protection of the natural systems on Earth.
• Strand G,  Standard 1: Understand the competitive, interdependent cyclic nature of living things in environment.
• Strand H, Standard 1:Use the scientific processes and habits of the mind to solve problems.
• Strand H, Standard 2: Understand that most natural events occur in comprehensible, consistent patterns.
• Strand H, Standard 3: Understand that science, technology and society are interwoven and interdependent.