Oceanic Circulation: What Keeps the Ocean in Motion?
Grade Range
6th-8th
Group Size
3-4 students
Active Time
100 minutes
Total Time
100 minutes
Area of Science
Ocean Sciences
Environmental Science
Key Concepts
Oceanic circulation, convection, climate, density, temperature
Learning Objectives
- Understand the ocean's impact on global climate.
- Investigate and describe how temperature differences drive oceanic water movement.
- Explain how climate change can affect oceanic circulation systems.
Credits
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
![]() OverviewWhy is the ocean vital to our planet? There are many reasons, but one important one is that the ocean is a major player in regulating our weather and climate through currents. In this lesson plan, your students will model ocean currents with cups, water, and food coloring, and explore how temperature and density differences set deep ocean waters in motion to create a global oceanic circulation system.NGSS AlignmentThis lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:
Materials![]() Materials per group of 3–4 students:
Materials for teacher preparation and demonstration:
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Grade Range
6th-8th
Group Size
3-4 students
Active Time
100 minutes
Total Time
100 minutes
Area of Science
Ocean Sciences
Environmental Science
Key Concepts
Oceanic circulation, convection, climate, density, temperature
Credits
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
Learning Objectives
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