Layers and Currents - Oceans in Motion

Grade and/or Subject:
Grade 5 Science, Earth Science, Elective—Oceanography
Description:
  Through hands-on experiments, investigate how currents form in water. Predict what happens when water of differ temperatures and salinities mix. Extend your learning by adopting a buoy and learning more about ocean currents. Assess your learning with a 5-item quiz.
Virginia Standards of Learning:
  Grade 5 Science (5.1, 5.6)
Earth Science (ES.1, ES.11)
Elective—Oceanography
NSE Standards:
  Science as inquiry; properties and changes of properties in matter; structure of Earth system.
Materials:
 

Computer with Internet Access
Hands-On Materials

  • Clear glasses or plastic cups (8 oz or larger)
  • Eye dropper or food baster
  • Food coloring (dark colors work best)
  • Table salt
  • Water - hot from faucet
  • Water - cold from refrigerator
  • Water - room temperature