Introduction
Have you ever wondered why the sea level changes during the day? Sometimes the water moves closer to the shore, while at other times it moves farther away. In this WebQuest, you will discover how the Moon, Sun, and Earth work together to cause ocean tides.
Task
Your task is to research ocean tides and create a one-page infographic or poster explaining:
- What tides are
- What causes tides
- The difference between high tide and low tide
- The role of the Moon and Sun
- Why understanding tides is important to coastal communities
Process
Follow these steps:
- Form a group of 3–4 students.
- Research information about ocean tides using the provided resources.
- Identify the causes of high and low tides.
- Discuss how tides affect people living near the coast.
- Create a one-page infographic or poster.
- Present your output to the class.
- Individually answer: “Why is understanding tides important in my community?”
Evaluation
| Criteria | Excellent (10) | Good (8) | Fair (6) | Needs Improvement (4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy of Information | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Completeness | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Creativity/Presentation | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Teamwork | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Oral Presentation | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Total | 50 |
Conclusion
Through this activity, students will understand that ocean tides are mainly caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and, to a lesser extent, the Sun. They will also learn why tides are important to fishing, transportation, coastal communities, and disaster preparedness.
Credits
This section acknowledges the sources and people who contributed to the activity.
WebQuest Title: Exploring the Mystery of Ocean Tides
Subject: Science
Grade Level: Grade 8
Prepared by: Jannene Grace Fuerte Cervancia
School: IQRA Development Academy
Year: 2026
Content Sources:
- Science textbook/module on Earth and Space Science
- NASA educational resources about the Moon and tides
- NOAA educational resources about tides and water levels
- Teacher-created diagrams and activity instructions
Acknowledgment:
This WebQuest was developed using information from educational resources to help students understand the causes and effects of ocean tides. All referenced materials and images should be properly acknowledged according to their copyright and usage requirements.
Teacher Page
Topic: Ocean Tides
Grade Level: Grade 8
Time: 60–90 minutes
Learning Objectives:
At the end of the activity, students should be able to:
- Define ocean tides.
- Explain how the Moon and Sun's gravity affect tides.
- Differentiate between high tide and low tide.
- Explain why understanding tides is important to coastal communities.
Learning Activities:
- Brief teacher introduction about tides
- Group WebQuest/research activity
- Creation of an infographic or poster
- Group presentation
- Individual reflection
Teacher's Role:
The teacher will:
- Introduce the topic and activate students' prior knowledge.
- Divide students into groups.
- Provide and explain the online resources.
- Guide students while they conduct research.
- Check the accuracy of their information.
- Facilitate group presentations.
- Provide feedback and assess the students' outputs.
Materials Needed:
- Computer, tablet, or smartphone
- Internet connection
- Science textbook/module
- Bond paper or cartolina
- Markers or other presentation materials
Assessment:
Students will be assessed based on:
- Accuracy of information – 30%
- Completeness – 20%
- Creativity and organization – 20%
- Group participation – 15%
- Presentation and explanation – 15%
Expected Output:
A one-page infographic/poster about ocean tides with a short group presentation and individual reflection