Deep Sea Trench Lesson Plans

Fifth graders investigate the ocean floor through the construction of a model of it. They conduct preliminary research using a variety of resources. Students label and then describe the different geographical features including continental shelf, slope, and rise.

First graders complete a unit on oceans. They build models of the ocean, make flipbooks, and perform an experiment to see which items float in salt water and freshwater.

Students use maps, on-line research, stories and poems to explore the oceans and the plants and animals that live there. They make a display and produce various forms of creative writing showing their work.

Learners imagine and describe fictitious sea animals that might live in the ocean. After reading an article, they reflect on new discoveries found in the ocean recently. Using the internet, they research the interdependence of animals they use to survive. They also write a short science fiction story to end the lesson.

Students use facts and imagination to invent imaginary deep sea creatures. They create a classroom museum exhibit on real organisms from the abyss and write creative stories about these animals. In addition, they write a story to explain the adaptations of an ocean animal.

Students examine how the Mariana Trench's natural assets could affect communities worldwide. They analyze a map, identify the location and features of the Mariana Trench, explore various websites, and create a public awareness poster advocating the importance of the Mariana Trench.

Students identify ocean features and draw a profile using data points on a map. Through discussion and research, they discover the importance of oceanography and plot a profile of the ocean floor in search for a vessel full of precious metals. After completing worksheets, they construct ocean models using small aquariums, sand, and water.

Students discover common features of hydrothermal vent fluids. They use this knowledge to locate possible undiscovered hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor.

Learners explain diversity and abundance in marine life. In this oceanic biology lesson, students collect information for various geographical areas to collect a census of marine life.

Students investigate deep-sea habitats. They define key vocabulary terms, conduct research on a deep ocean habitat in small groups, identify six organisms from their assigned habitat, and prepare an information card for each organism.