In response to this weeks iceberg activity, if the polar ice caps melted, there could be many ramifications on the environment. According to the activity, there would not be a rise in water levels because the floating icebergs have already displaced the water. However, where we will run into problems is if the ice caps over land melt. Here, we do not already have displacement taking place. So, glaciers over land that are melting into the oceans will drastically effect the water levels around the world. Not to mention, global weather patterns, ocean currents, and animal and plant life in the areas.
Additional questions that I have about this activity would be how to make this experiment work in a 40 minute science class, or as an activity that is done independently at home. Any ideas?
Hello Lisa!
ReplyDeleteIn regards to using this activity within a class period, I could see it split up into maybe three classes. The first class would incorporate the gathering of background knowledge and ideas, also getting the ice ready for the experiment. The second day would be the actual experiment along with the recording of observations. The third day would be used for discussion and possible ramifications upon the Earth. I really liked your idea about having students complete the experiment portion of the activity at home. It would be a great way to get them involved outside of class.
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI am glad that you pointed out the ice caps over land were ignored in this experiment. I felt like this experiment did a good job at raising questions, but not a good job at really covering all aspects of global warming. I think it could be good at introducing the topic and raising questions, just not at getting into all aspects of the topic.
In order to complete this experiment at school, I was planning on having each class record their finding during their period. At the end of the day, what actually happened during the whole day would be documented. The next day, the students would see what happened during other class periods with the same bowl, which would allow them to draw conclusions based on the results of the experiment.
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