#SEAWEEDMATTERS
An Introductory Lesson to-
Global Systems
To understand why 'seaweed matters' you first need to understand why the ocean matters and why the systems near the surface of the Earth matter. You will take a look at the bigger picture before trying to understand the smaller details!
First you will take a look at the 4 Global Systems- The Atmosphere, Lithosphere, Hydrosphere and Biosphere. You will investigate the main issue surrounding all 4 of the Global Systems which is The Greenhouse Effect. You will consider the Carbon Cycle and the effects of human impact on this cycle and then finally you will investigate the role of Seaweed in the Carbon Cycle and on the Global Systems.
TASK 1- Understanding the 4 Global Systems- (15 minutes)
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Draw 4 boxes in your wordbook and label them as shown below. Describe each of the following global systems by firstly noting down everything you already know....and then add more notes using your own research. Include at least 5 dot points for each system.
ATMOSPHERE
LITHOSPHERE
BIOSPHERE
HYDROSPHERE
Post Task 1 Question: Which of the Global Systems most applies to Oceans?
The Hydrosphere of course! 97% of the Earth's water is in it's oceans and the oceans cover more than 70% of the planet!
TASK 2- Understanding the Greenhouse Effect - (15 minutes)
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Individually, you are to create a mind map in your workbook surrounding the term 'the greenhouse effect' using your prior knowledge.
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Then working with the person beside you, research about the Greenhouse Effect. Add to your mind map new information you have discovered. Make sure to draw a diagram that indicates what the Greenhouse Effect looks like.
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Finally, as a class annotate the diagram below detailing as much as possible about the greenhouse effect.
Post Task 2 Question: Which Greenhouse Gas is most responsible for the Greenhouse Effect?
Carbon Dioxide! In 2017, it was found that 82% of the greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S was CO2 gas which was only human contributions.
TASK 3- Understanding the Carbon Cycle - (20 minutes)
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As a class watch the video on the Carbon Cycle. Remember to take Notes!
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Find using research, a detailed labelled diagram of the Carbon Cycle and draw it into your workbook.
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Use the Ecological Footprint Calculator to assess your contribution to the Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming. Take note of your Carbon Footprint and have a look at the possible solutions.
TASK 4- Understanding the role of Seaweed in the Carbon Cycle and therefore in Global Systems - (20 minutes)
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Read the Article by Susanna Pakkasmaa on how 'Seaweed plays a huge role in global climate regulation'.
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Annotate and take notes on the role seaweed plays in the Carbon Cycle and Global Systems.
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Find 3 other roles of seaweed in the environment and in human consumption and resources. As a class compile a list of Seaweed Uses in the World.
