Science 7 Unit Plan
Mr. Rhode
Topic- Oceanic Currents/Atmospheric Currents
Duration- Approximately 12 class periods
OAA/Common Core Learning Standards Addressed- Earth and Space Sciences (ESS#2) Thermal-energy
transfers in the ocean and the atmosphere contribute to the formation of currents, which in turn
influence global climate patterns.
Theme of Unit- All students will learn that the Sun is the ultimate source of energy for ocean and air
currents. Students will discover that ocean currents exist due to density differences throughout the
ocean. They will further learn that these density differences are caused by the salinity and temperature
variations of the water. Students will also investigate other factors that dictate the movement of ocean
currents such as topography and Earth’s rotation of its axis. Finally students will discover that oceanic
currents play a major role in climate patterns on Earth. Ocean currents delineate climate patterns.
I CAN Statements……………………
- identify the Sun as the ultimate source of energy for ocean and air currents.
-identify that oceanic currents exist due to the fact that ocean water exists at different densities.
-explain how salinity (salt content) and temperature affect the density of saltwater
-describe how warm currents form and transport heat from the equatorial region to the polar regions
on Earth
-describe how cold current form and transport cold water from the polar regions back to the
equatorial region where it can again be heated.
-The process described above is the Thermohaline Circulation!
-I can predict the impact of ocean currents on a regions overall climate.
-identify the Gulfstream as a warm oceanic current.
-identify the Jet Stream as an atmospheric current.
Activities/Labs- Students will participate in Smartboard Lessons (including video demonsrtations),
create a map of ocean currents, use National Geographic’s online webpage to facilitate learning of
ocean currents (RubaDucky Activity), and perform two experiments together to simulate ocean currents.
Small assessments such as HW’s, exit-passes, quizzes, will be given prior to a large assessment.