In this video, Jonathan examines the biology of coral reefs and their importance to the marine ecosystem. Please see the accompanying lesson plan that discusses pH and ocean acidification for educational objectives, discussion points and classroom activities.

This unit engages students in a variety of activities that analyze and reflect on the role of social media in our everyday lives. This includes options for collaborative group work, reading nonfiction articles, a design challenge and presentations to communicate ideas. The unit also includes a formal writing assessment option that aligns with the Common Core State Writing Standards. Activities can be adapted or combined in a variety of ways to support student reflection and analysis. These lessons were piloted in 9th grade English classes but are suitable or a range of secondary students. 

Students are introduced to acids and bases, and the environmental problem of acid rain. They explore ways to use indicators to distinguish between acids and bases. Students also conduct a simple experiment to model and discuss the harmful effects of acid rain on our living and non-living environment, as well as how engineers address acid rain. In an associated literacy activity, students learn how persuasive techniques are used to develop an argument, and create an environmental case study.

Students will focus on neutral buoyancy and how it plays a role on a ketchup packet in a bottle of water an apply knowledge obtained to astronauts in space.

Through relevant videos, connections to young adult literature, and hands-on exploration, students are introduced to the challenge of providing clean water and sanitation through a global lens.Additionally, students go on a “water walk” to experience the challenges that some people face each day as they locate and collect clean water.The goal of the unit is to ground the activities in a culture of empathy. Furthermore, students participate in an engineering design challenge in which they build a water filter that is both cost-efficient and effective in changing the pH and turbidity of the water samples.Finally, students have the opportunity to share their learning with peers and local experts through a sales presentation as they pitch their device and findings.Standards:CCSS English Language Arts (Grade 7)CCSS Math (Grade 7)Ohio Standards for Science (Grade 7)

Test the pH of things like coffee, spit, and soap to determine whether each is acidic, basic, or neutral. Visualize the relative number of hydroxide ions and hydronium ions in solution. Switch between logarithmic and linear scales. Investigate whether changing the volume or diluting with water affects the pH. Or you can design your own liquid!