When a storm whips up at sea, it’s best to be on land. Clouds are one way to tell if the weather is going to turn bad. Learn about what the shapes of clouds mean in relation to weather. Hint: Lowering flat clouds and puffy clouds that start building up higher in the sky are signals that a storm is approaching.
Using paper, crayons or markers, glue, and cotton balls, make a picture of a boat on the water with approaching storm clouds. Explain how your clouds show that a storm is coming.
Grades 5 to 8
One of the ways sea captains navigate the ocean is by using some form of a compass. A compass is a device that uses a magnetic needle to indicate magnetic north.
Make your own water compass using a small paper clip, straightened; a small piece of Styrofoam (like a packing peanut); a bowl of water; a magnet (one from the refrigerator will work); and a permanent marker.
First, rub the paper clip with the magnet for several minutes. Stick the paper clip through the Styrofoam. Gently place them on the surface of water. Allow the paper clip enough time to align along the magnetic fields of the Earth. It will then point north!
Test this by gently blowing on the paper clip to push it out of alignment. The same end of the paper clip should always return to the same direction. Mark the north end of the needle with permanent marker.
Grades 9 to 12
Think about how government regulations have affected commercial fishing. Take turns being a proponent of the fishing industry or government interests to debate the issues. Talk about whether limiting fishing has driven fishers to take unnecessary risks and what other options there might be to protect the sea’s bounty.
