Quick summary: Students investigate the process of ocean acidification, and in particular the role of water temperature in CO2 absorption. They begin the activity by looking at an image describing ocean acidification and responding to associated questions. They are then asked to design an experiment aimed at demonstrating the role of water temperature in CO2 absorption. Students will then summarise their knowledge of ocean acidification in the form or an advertising campaign.
These activities “… are an invaluable tool for teachers to address climate change in an educationally relevant, scientifically sound, and action-based way.” – Tim Flannery (Read more)
- Students understand how CO2 is absorbed by sea water.
- Students design and conduct and experiment to demonstrate the role of water temperature in CO2 absorption.
- Students understand the cause and consequences of ocean acidification.
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.
Cross-curriculum priorities: Sustainability OI.1, OI.2.
Australian Curriculum content description:
Year 10 Science
- Global systems, including the carbon cycle, rely on interactions involving the biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere (ACSSU189)
Syllabus Outcomes: SC5-12ES.
Topic: We Are the Weather Makers
Time required: 60 mins
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – oversee activity
Resources required: Internet access, student worksheets, OPTIONAL: soft drinks and ice.
Digital technology opportunities: Digital sharing capabilities, video making.
Homework and extension opportunities: None.
Key reading from We Are the Weather Makers: Chapter 3 – The Greenhouse Gases
Further reading from the book: Chapter 19 – How Can They Keep On Moving, Chapter 15 – Rising Waters
Keywords: Ocean acidification, Carbon Dioxide, ocean temperatures, CO2 absorption.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
Cool Australia would like to acknowledge:
- Tim Flannery
- David Harding, Rose Iser, Sally Stevens
- Text Publishing and Purves Environmental Fund
- Climate Council