EARTH SCIENCE - OCEANOGRAPHY - OCEAN WATER

The second section of our oceanography unit introduces students to the characteristics of ocean water, oceanic environments and resources that are or may be derived from the worlds oceans. Students will gain new knowledge while reinforcing many of the skills and concepts covered previously: mass, volume, density, specific gravity etc. Students will gain an understanding of the oceans specific ecosystems and how organisms have adapted to each.

Students will demonstrate their understanding of the following concepts by way of tests, labs and written assignments.

Idea's for further study: Demonstrate the differences between fresh and salt water: buoyancy, density, salinity, conductivity... Research from current periodicals the adaptation of deep sea fishes to the tremendous pressure and lack of sunlight. Research the concept of desalination, it's feasibility, effect on the environment and include details from our local desal plant. Contact local water quality officials to determine the relative health of Tampa Bay.

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 D, Standard 2: Understand the need for protection of the natural systems on Earth.
• Strand F, Standard 1: Describe patterns of structure and function in living things.
• Strand F, Standard 2: Understand the process and importance of genetic diversity.
• Strand G,  Standard 1: Understand the competitive, interdependent cyclic nature of living things in environment.
• Strand G,  Standard 2: Understand the consequences of using limited natural resources.
• Strand H, Standard 1:Use the scientific processes and habits of the mind to solve problems..
• Strand H, Standard 3: Understand that science, technology and society are interwoven and interdependent.