This article discusses the new observations of migrating creatures in the world's oceans made possible by the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) satellite.
Teaching Tips
Positives
The article reinforces the critical importance of the scientific method and the application of technology in order to understand how our planet is changing and how it could change in the future.
Additional Prerequisites
Students should be familiar with the terms predator, prey, migration, biomass, and phytoplankton.
Differentiation
This could be a great resource to add to any lesson discussing scientific innovations and technology, predator-prey interactions, the oceans, climate change, the carbon cycle, or food webs.
Students could discuss how scientists might use the data that CALIPSO collects and how it might relate to our understanding of climate change.
Scientist Notes
CALIPSO and satellite data collection is a new method in investigating animals that undergo Diel Vertical Migration (DVM). Great work by the NASA team. The resource is recommended.
Standards
Science and Engineering
LS2: Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
HS-LS2-5 Develop a model to illustrate the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the cycling of carbon among the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
English Language Arts
Reading (K-12)
R.6-8.7 Interpret words and phrases as they are used in various texts, including determining technical, connotative, and figurative meanings, and analyze how specific word choices shape meaning or tone.
