EXPLORING OCEAN TIDES

Introduction

         Have you ever noticed that the level of seawater changes throughout the day? Sometimes the water moves closer to the shore, while at other times it moves farther away. These changes are called ocean tides.

        In this WebQuest, you will become a young ocean scientist. You will explore reliable websites and online resources to discover what causes tides, how the Moon and Sun affect them, and why high and low tides occur.


 

Task

Your task is to investigate the causes of ocean tides and create a digital infographic or presentation explaining how tides occur.

Your final output should include:

  • Definition of ocean tides
  • Causes of tides
  • The role of the Moon and Sun
  • Difference between high tide and low tide
  • A labeled diagram showing how tides occur
  • At least three interesting facts about ocean tides


 

Process

Step 1: Search the provided resources and read about ocean tides.


 

Step 2: Identify the main causes of tides and explain the gravitational influence of the Moon and Sun.


 

Step 3: Research the difference between high tide and low tide.


 

Step 4: Work with your group to create a labeled diagram showing the Earth, Moon, Sun, and ocean tides.


 

Step 5: Create your infographic or presentation using Canva, PowerPoint, or another available digital tool.


 

Step 6: Present your work to the class and explain what you discovered.


 

Evaluation

EVALUATION

Criteria

Excellent (4)

Good (3)

Fair (2)

Needs Improvement (1)

Content Accuracy Information is accurate and complete Mostly accurate Some errors Many errors
Understanding Clearly explains how tides occur Explanation is mostly clear Limited explanation Explanation is unclear
Diagram Complete, accurate, and well-labeled Mostly complete Some labels missing Incomplete
Creativity Very creative and engaging Creative Some creativity Little creativity
Presentation Clear, organized, and confident Generally clear Somewhat unclear Difficult to follow

Total: 20 points


 

Conclusion

Congratulations, young ocean scientists! Through this WebQuest, you explored the causes of ocean tides and learned how the gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun influence Earth’s oceans. You also practiced researching information, working with others, using digital tools, and presenting scientific ideas.

After completing the activity, reflect on this question:

How does understanding ocean tides help us appreciate and better understand the relationship between Earth, the Moon, and the Sun?


 

Credits

RESOURCES

You may use the following reliable resources:


 

Teacher Page

N/A