Carbon in the Oceans

Amy Townsend-Small, University of Cincinnati

Author Profile
Initial Publication Date: June 6, 2013

Summary

In this assignment, students in small groups are asked to interpret and explain a figure depicting one aspect of marine carbon biogeochemistry. Then a representative of each group explains the figure to the class.

Share your modifications and improvements to this activity through the Community Contribution Tool »

Context

Audience

It is an undergraduate mid-level course in Biogeochemistry, offered jointly to students majoring in Environmental Studies or Geology.

Skills and concepts that students must have mastered

Interpreting scientific figures
Understanding the major processes in the global carbon cycle
A preliminary understanding of marine science

How the activity is situated in the course

As a stand-alone exercise to break up the endless series of professor-led lectures

Goals

Content/concepts goals for this activity

Understand how anthropogenic activities have affected ocean biogeochemistry

Understand the major controls on carbon cycling in the oceans

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

Analysis of data
Interpretation of scientific figures
Integration of physical, biological, and chemical concepts

Other skills goals for this activity

Oral presentation
Working in groups

Description and Teaching Materials

There is one item attached: a document with a series of worksheets. One sheet for each group.

C in the Oceans Exercise (Microsoft Word 2007 (.docx) 1.5MB Apr29 13)



Teaching Notes and Tips


Assessment

Each student who participates gets a participation point. The instructor and other students will give feedback on each group's presentation.

References and Resources

Our text book is Global Environment: Water, Air, and Geochemical Cycles by Berner and Berner (2nd ed).