Our wonderful ocean KS1 introduces students to the marine habitat and encourages a discussion around what students already know about the ocean. Students use globes and maps to discover that we live on a blue planet. They then play a game of marine snap, matching animals to their features. Students then find out about some iconic marine creatures and make a fact sheet about their favourite.

This lesson looks at how ocean biodiversity can be protected, covering a range of methods, and includes an in-depth analysis of community conservation in Arran, Scotland. The lesson looks at how seabed communities can recover after human impacts, and the importance of lesser-known seabed species in this process. Curriculum links Science KS3 Biology Biodiversity and its importance Threats to biodiversity Conservation and management strategies Adaptation Working scientifically Using evidence to support conclusions Communication and advocacy Learning outcomes Understand the methods used in protecting marine biodiversity Explain the impact of human activities on seabed ecosystems Identify adaptations of lesser-known species that help seabed restoration Advocate for the process of seabed recovery and the role of MPAs

In this introductory lesson, we look at the scientific processes and concepts of the carbon cycle. This will enable students to grow prior knowledge of food webs, respiration, and photosynthesis, as well as the combustion of fossil fuels into a more complete model. The lesson starts with an exercise to illustrate the range of different forms of carbon and carbon compounds and where they are found. This is followed by a gamified exploration of the carbon cycle. Key vocabulary and an understanding of the carbon cycle and its link to climate change is developed through a dominos task and short answer questions. Learning outcomes Identify where carbon can be found Describe ten basic processes of the carbon cycle Demonstrate their understanding of carbon stores and movement between them Link increasing carbon in the atmosphere to climate change

This lesson introduces ocean acidification, the other carbon problem. The ocean absorbs about 25% of human-produced carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This helps to mitigate climate change but is not without its negative consequences for the ocean. This is a practical lesson where students will develop their working scientifically skills and develop their literacy by writing a scientific conclusion using the ‘Point Evidence Explain’ technique from English. Curriculum links Science KS3 Working scientifically Using evidence to support conclusions Analysing data and graphs Investigation skills Biology / Chemistry Using the pH scale to describe change Explaining the impact of human production of carbon dioxide on the environment Learning outcomes Describe patterns in results Investigate how carbon emissions change ocean chemistry Describe the process of ocean acidification Write a scientific conclusion

In this introductory lesson, we look at the scientific processes and concepts of the carbon cycle. This will enable students to grow prior knowledge of food webs, respiration, and photosynthesis, as well as the combustion of fossil fuels into a more complete model. The lesson starts with an exercise to illustrate the range of different forms of carbon and carbon compounds and where they are found. This is followed by a gamified exploration of the carbon cycle. Key vocabulary and an understanding of the carbon cycle and its link to climate change is developed through a dominos task and short answer questions. Curriculum links Science KS3 Earth and atmosphere the carbon cycle the production of carbon dioxide by human activity and the impact on climate Geography KS3 Human and physical geography human geography relating to the use of natural resources understand how human and physical processes interact to influence, and change the climate Learning outcomes Identify where carbon can be found Describe ten basic processes of the carbon cycle Demonstrate their understanding of carbon stores and movement between them Link increasing carbon in the atmosphere to climate change

This lesson introduces students to the idea of blue carbon habitats and their importance. Students will gain an overview of these coastal environments before analysing data to see how they play an important role in absorbing carbon and helping to tackle climate change. Curriculum links Science KS3 Biology Investigate the diversity and nature of coastal ecosystems Chemistry Apply knowledge of the carbon cycle to climate change mitigation Working scientifically Analyse and interpret data Draw conclusions from data Learning outcomes Identify and describe the main types of blue carbon habitats Understand how the ocean and blue carbon habitats help tackle climate change Analyse the ability of different habitats to absorb and store carbon Evaluate nature priorities based on data

This Key Stage 4 (KS4) science lesson supports students to develop the ‘sampling techniques’ component of working scientifically for GCSE. It is based on current research being conducted by Exeter University and Plymouth Marine Laboratory. Students work scientifically to discover if zooplankton and microplastic occur together. In this lesson students learn how to apply sampling techniques, using real field data collected by Dr Lewis’ team. The context of this lesson is the voyage the team took to the Gulf of Maine to investigate if zooplankton and microplastics co-occur. This full lesson includes: Lesson Overview & Teacher Guidance Slideshow 4 Do zooplankton and microplastics occur together? Student Sheet 4a Do zooplankton and microplastics occur together? Student Sheet 4b Do zooplankton and microplastics occur together? (higher) Answer Sheet for Student Sheet 4a & 4b This is Lesson 4 of 7 in the Plankton, Plastics and Poo unit of work, which is based on current research being conducted at the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory. The unit consists of enquiry-based lessons which support students to work scientifically by simulating the researchers’ investigations, and encourages students to the use their findings to have a wider impact. The resource uses innovative methods to bring cutting edge science to the classroom, including: - Using real field and laboratory data. - Practical investigations that replicate the work of the scientists. - Using social media to connect with the scientists. - The opportunity to connect with scientists through Skype in the classroom events. All lessons and resources are available from Encounter Edu’s TES profile.

Journey to the mangrove forests of Indonesia in this thought-provoking lesson that brings conservation and community cooperation to life in your KS2 classroom. Prepare to transform your students into conservationists as they: Explore a magical forest between land and sea: Take a virtual expedition to the mysterious mangrove forests of Indonesia, where trees seem to walk on water! Become mangrove detectives: Guide your young explorers as they uncover the secrets of mangroves - from their unique adaptations to their crucial role in protecting coastlines and combating climate change. Step into different shoes: Through an engaging stakeholder activity, students will role-play as various groups with interests in the mangroves - from local fishermen to government officials. This exercise in empathy will help them understand the complexity of conservation efforts. Solve real-world puzzles: Challenge your class to balance the needs of different groups while protecting the mangroves. They’ll have to grapple with authentic conservation dilemmas. Build bridges for a better future: Inspire your students to find creative solutions that bring diverse groups together. They’ll learn the power of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. This lesson beautifully aligns with the KS2 Geography curriculum, touching on globally significant places, physical geography, and human geography. It encourages students to think critically about the interplay between nature and human societies. By the end of this mangrove expedition, your students will: Confidently locate and describe the natural features of mangrove forests Demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of mangroves to both nature and people Show improved skills in considering multiple perspectives on environmental issues Develop and present creative ideas for collaborative conservation efforts See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Geography KS2 • Globally significant marine and terrestrial places • Physical geography: climate zones, biomes and vegetation belts • Human geography: land use and the distribution of natural resources

Visit the saltmarshes of the Solent in this multifaceted lesson that brings ecology, tourism, and conservation together in your KS2 classroom. Get ready to transform your students into eco-explorers and budding tour guides as they: Discover a hidden coastal wonder: Take a virtual field trip to the mysterious saltmarshes of the Solent. Become food web detectives: Guide your young scientists as they unravel the intricate connections between saltmarsh inhabitants. They’ll piece together food chains and webs. Explore nature’s superpowers: students learn how saltmarshes act as nature’s own superheroes - protecting coastlines, purifying water, and fighting climate change as a blue carbon habitat. Design eco-tourism campaigns: Encourage creativity as students craft eye-catching posters to promote saltmarshes as must-visit destinations. They’ll learn to balance environmental protection with responsible tourism, thinking critically about sustainable development. This lesson brilliantly intertwines elements of the KS2 Geography and Science curricula, offering a perfect blend of ecological understanding and real-world application. It’s designed to nurture scientific thinking while fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and economic awareness. By the end of this saltmarsh safari, your students will: Explain the importance of saltmarshes for both nature and local communities Demonstrate improved skills in describing and mapping food chains using scientific terminology Show enhanced creativity in promoting eco-tourism while considering conservation needs See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Geography KS2 • Globally significant marine and terrestrial places • Physical geography: climate zones, biomes and vegetation belts Science KS2 • construct and interpret a variety of food chains, identifying producers, predators and prey

A fun, hands-on lesson that introduces classes to sediment, the ocean equivalent of soil. This practical lesson shows how important worms are for the health of the seabed. During this lesson, students will: Become seabed scientists: Guide your young researchers as they uncover the secrets of marine sediment - the ocean’s equivalent of soil. They’ll learn why it’s crucial for ocean life. Meet the unsung heroes of the sea: Introduce your class to the fascinating world of marine worms. Through fun, hands-on activities, students will discover how these humble creatures are the hardworking gardeners of the seabed. Get their hands dirty (in the best way): Engage in a messy but memorable practical activity that demonstrates how worms transform the seabed. Investigate human impacts: Challenge your class to think critically about how human activities affect the seabed. They’ll develop environmental awareness and problem-solving skills as they consider ways to protect these crucial habitats. This lesson brilliantly extends the KS2 Science curriculum, introducing marine sediments as a natural progression from the study of rocks and soils. It also touches on key Geography concepts. By the end of this lesson, your students will: Confidently describe the features and location of shallow sea habitats Demonstrate understanding of how ocean sediment forms and its importance Explain the crucial role of worms in creating a healthy seabed ecosystem Show improved critical thinking skills when considering human impacts on marine environments See the full Ocean Heroes unit on TES. Curriculum links Geography KS2 • Globally significant marine and terrestrial places Science KS2 • Marine sediments have yet to feature directly in the National Curriculum, and this lesson can be used as an extension to the study of rocks and soils • This lesson also introduces the relationship between soils and sediments and the animal life that can make them more suited to other life • Recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things

Get involved in ocean conservation with this thought-provoking lesson that brings the complex world of sustainable fishing to your classroom. Prepare to transform your students into marine detectives and eco-conscious consumers as they: Follow the fish from sea to plate: Take your class on a journey from the ocean depths to their dinner tables, asking them to connect the ocean food they eat to marine life. Crunch the numbers: Engage in a fun, fish-themed maths activity. They’ll calculate just how many cod it would take to feed the nation with fish fingers, bringing maths to life. Evaluating fishing techniques: Guide your class as they explore various fishing methods. They’ll weigh the pros and cons of each, developing critical thinking skills as they grapple with real-world sustainability issues. Step into the shoes of marine life: Through engaging activities, students will gain empathy for ocean creatures and understand the impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems. Raise their voices for ocean health: Inspire your class to become advocates for sustainable fishing. They’ll craft persuasive arguments to convince school leaders and even government officials to ‘get fish smart’! This lesson beautifully intertwines elements of PSHE and Geography curricula, offering a perfect blend of environmental awareness, economic understanding, and civic engagement. It’s designed to nurture critical thinking while fostering a sense of global citizenship. By the end of this fishy adventure, your students will: Demonstrate a clear understanding of fish as a food source and its journey to our plates Show improved skills in debating the merits and drawbacks of different fishing methods Develop empathy for marine life and ecosystems affected by overfishing Craft persuasive arguments for sustainable fishing practices See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links KS2 PSHE • Sustainable development and use of natural resources • Taking action on environmental issues KS2 Geography • economic activity and distribution of natural resources including food

Get ready to introduce your KS2 class to the fascinating realm of blue carbon habitats - Earth’s hidden climate champions. In this exciting lesson, your students will: Uncover nature’s secret weapon: Introduce the concept of ‘blue carbon’ and learn how coastal environments are Earth’s unsung heroes in the battle against climate change. Find global habitats: Students locate and map major blue carbon habitats around the world. They’ll develop their geography skills while gaining a global perspective on these crucial ecosystems. ‘Do the math’ like real scientists: Dive into data analysis with a fun and engaging activity. Students will interpret real data to understand just how powerful these habitats are in absorbing carbon, bringing maths and science together in a meaningful way. Explore underwater forests: Take a virtual field trip to mangrove swamps, seagrass meadows, and saltmarshes. Students will be amazed to learn how these environments act as nature’s own carbon capture technology. Become ecosystem advocates: Inspire your class to think critically about conservation. They’ll use their newfound knowledge and data interpretation skills to make compelling arguments for protecting these vital habitats. This lesson brilliantly integrates elements of the KS2 Maths and Geography curricula, offering a perfect blend of data interpretation and global awareness. It’s designed to nurture analytical thinking while fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. By the end of this hope-filled journey, your students will: Confidently explain the concept of blue carbon and how coastal habitats store it Demonstrate improved map skills by locating major blue carbon habitats globally Show enhanced data interpretation skills, using numbers to support environmental conservation See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Maths KS2 Interpret and present data Geography KS2 Locate globally significant marine places

This engaging exploration will transform your KS2 classroom into an underwater observatory, where students will discover the fascinating and sometimes concerning changes happening beneath the waves. Get ready to embark on an oceanic adventure where your students will: Become climate detectives: Unravel the mystery of how excess carbon in our atmosphere is changing our planet’s oceans. Watch as your students connect the dots between human activities and the transformations occurring in our marine world. Journey from pole to pole: Take a virtual expedition from the melting ice caps to the vibrant coral reefs. Students will be amazed to learn how climate change affects vastly different marine ecosystems. Explore a coral wonderland: Dive into a video case study of the Maldives’ coral reefs. Your class will explore this colorful underwater world and learn about the delicate balance that keeps coral reefs healthy. Hear from the experts: Engage with real quotes from scientists and community members in an exciting poster activity. This hands-on task will bring the human element of climate change to life, showing students how these changes affect people around the world. Become ocean advocates: Inspire your students to share their newfound knowledge through creative poster designs. This lesson beautifully aligns with the KS2 Geography curriculum, focusing on how environments change over time. It offers a perfect blend of scientific understanding and global awareness, encouraging students to think critically about the world around them. By the end of this ocean odyssey, your students will: Confidently explain how excess atmospheric carbon leads to climate change Identify and describe various impacts of climate change on our oceans Create compelling posters to share their learning and raise awareness See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Geography KS2 How environments can change over time; focus on both terrestrial and marine systems and places.

Fully-resourced lesson developing classification skills using the amazing life in seagrass meadows. This lesson takes your class on an underwater adventure to the seagrass meadows off Sicily and brings marine biology to life in the KS2 classroom. Students will take the role of junior marine biologists: Dive into a hidden world: Take a virtual plunge into the seagrass meadows surrounding Sicily, and discover this lesser-known but incredibly important underwater habitat teeming with life. Become sea creature detectives: Equip your young explorers with the tools to identify and classify the diverse array of creatures calling seagrass meadows home. From fish to crustaceans to reptiles, students will sharpen their observation skills and learn to spot key characteristics. Master the art of classification: Guide your class through the exciting process of grouping sea creatures based on observable features. Start to use classification keys: Introduce the concept of classification keys in a fun, hands-on way. Students will feel like real scientists as they use these tools to identify and categorize the unique inhabitants of seagrass meadows. Uncover nature’s secrets: As they explore this underwater world, students will also learn about the crucial role seagrass plays in our oceans and climate, connecting this lesson to broader environmental themes. This lesson brilliantly aligns with the KS2 Science curriculum, focusing on classification skills and the use of keys. It offers a perfect blend of scientific inquiry and environmental awareness, encouraging students to think critically about biodiversity and ecosystems. By the end of this underwater expedition, your students will: Confidently identify key features of seagrass habitats and their inhabitants Demonstrate improved skills in grouping organisms based on observable characteristics Show proficiency in using classification keys to identify marine life See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Science KS2 • Group organisms based on characteristics • Use classification keys

This lesson supports students to develop pledges to protect the ocean. It features examples of young ocean heroes, examples of persuasive writing, alongside writing frames and ocean pledge ideas. It can work as a standalone lesson or as the final lesson as part of the Ocean & Climate KS2 unit. Prepare to guide your young ocean advocates on an empowering journey as they: Meet real-life young ocean champions: Introduce your class to inspiring stories of children just like them who are making waves in ocean conservation. Master the art of persuasion: Equip your budding activists with powerful writing techniques. They’ll learn to craft compelling arguments that can turn the tide of public opinion on ocean protection. Find their voice: Guide students as they develop their own unique messages to advocate for ocean health. From posters to speeches, they’ll explore creative ways to make their voices heard. Dive deep into ocean-climate connections: Reinforce the crucial link between our oceans and climate, helping students understand why their actions matter on a global scale. Make waves with personal pledges: Inspire your class to commit to tangible actions that protect our oceans. Whether it’s reducing plastic use or spreading awareness, each student will find their own way to become an ocean hero. This lesson combines elements of PSHE and English curricula, offering a perfect blend of civic engagement and communication skills. It’s designed to nurture environmental stewardship while honing critical writing and speaking abilities. By the end of this empowering adventure, your students will: Demonstrate a clear understanding of the ocean-climate relationship Show improved skills in persuasive writing and speaking Develop a personal connection to ocean conservation issues Create and commit to meaningful ocean protection pledges See the full Ocean Heroes unit on TES. Curriculum links KS2 PSHE • Sustainable development and use of natural resources • Taking action on environmental issues KS2 English • Plan writing by identifying the audience for and purpose of the writing, selecting the appropriate form, and using other similar writing as models

This lesson is an exciting scientific adventure on the carbon cycle Perfect for KS2 students, this lesson will transform your classroom into a living laboratory where young minds will unravel the mysteries of one of Earth’s most crucial processes. Dive into the world of carbon with your class as they: Discover the building blocks of life: Students will be amazed to learn that carbon is all around us, from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Become carbon cycle detectives: Through engaging activities and visual aids, students will piece together the puzzle of how carbon moves through our world. They’ll trace carbon’s journey from plants to animals, from the atmosphere to the oceans, and back again. Play the ‘Carbon Cycle Game’: Students become carbon atoms, moving between different parts of the ecosystem in this fun, interactive activity that brings the carbon cycle to life. Connect the dots to climate change: Guide your students as they make the crucial link between human activities, the carbon cycle, and our changing climate. Blend science and geography: This lesson intertwines concepts from both subjects, showing how carbon’s journey affects both land and sea, and how environments change over time. This lesson acts as a springboard, building on students’ existing knowledge of food chains and animal needs, while preparing them for more advanced concepts in environmental science. It’s designed to spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and foster a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world. By the end of this lesson, your students will: Confidently explain what carbon is and where it can be found Understand and articulate the stages of the carbon cycle Make connections between human activities and changes in the carbon cycle See the full Ocean Heroes KS2 unit on TES. Curriculum links Science KS2 Brings together learning on: transport of oxygen in humans and other animals; what plants and animals need to survive; how living things are, connected in feeding relationships; combustion through heating of materials. Geography KS2 How environments can change over time; focus on both terrestrial and marine systems and places.

Dive into an ocean adventure with this captivating Ocean Heroes KS2 unit. This comprehensive series of nine lessons takes students on an unforgettable journey from the depths of the sea to the forefront of climate action. Lesson 1 Climate, carbon, and the ocean: discover the mysteries of carbon’s journey through our world, setting the stage for understanding climate change. Lesson 2 Climate impacts: explore the profound effects of climate change on our oceans, from melting ice caps to coral bleaching. Lesson 3 Nature as hero: introduce the concept of blue carbon habitats and their crucial role in combating climate change. Lesson 4 Seagrass animal classification: dive into the vibrant seagrass meadows of Sicily, honing classification skills while exploring marine biodiversity. Lesson 5 Community conservation: visit Indonesia’s mangrove forests and tackle real-world conservation challenges through stakeholder role-play. Lesson 6 Saltmarsh food chains: explore the Solent’s saltmarshes, mapping food webs and designing eco-tourism campaigns. Lesson 7 Wonderful worms and ocean sediment: get hands-on with marine sediments and discover the vital role of worms in seabed health. Lesson 8 Sustainable fishing: investigate overfishing impacts and debate sustainable fishing practices, connecting ocean health to our plates. Lesson 9 Ocean Heroes in action: empower students to become ocean advocates through persuasive writing and personal pledges. This unit seamlessly blends elements of Science, Geography, Maths, English, and PSHE, offering a truly cross-curricular exploration of our blue planet. From hands-on experiments to creative projects, students will engage with complex environmental concepts in accessible, exciting ways. By the end of this unit, your class will have: Gained a comprehensive understanding of ocean ecosystems and their importance Developed critical thinking skills around environmental challenges Honed their abilities in scientific observation, data analysis, and persuasive communication Cultivated a deep sense of environmental stewardship and global citizenship Ocean Heroes is a full unit of work covering all aspects of the ocean and climate change across Key Stage 2. Each lesson has been written with scientists and partners as part of the Convex Seascape Survey, with the University of Exeter and Blue Marine Foundation. Together they form a learning journey through some of our most important ocean habitats and living things. These lessons cover core aspects of the science and geography programmes of study as well as developing numeracy and literacy skills. The unit works works as a progressive learning journey, although individual lessons will still work as standalone teaching opportunities. The unit has a special focus on blue carbon, the coastal and seabed habitats that offer hope in tackling climate change.

This lesson brings the KS3 curriculum to life, seamlessly blending key concepts from biology, chemistry, and physics into a cohesive exploration of Earth’s systems. Through a carefully crafted series of activities, students will: Unravel climate change’s impact on our oceans, discovering how seemingly small changes can create ripple effects across entire ecosystems. Engage in a dynamic card sort activity that challenges them to categorise and connect various aspects of climate change, from causes to consequences. Get creative by designing an eye-catching diagram that visually represents the complex web of linkages in climate change. Develop critical thinking skills as they analyse how human activities contribute to climate change and how these changes affect Earth’s delicate balance. Gain a deeper appreciation for the role of oceans in regulating our climate, tying together concepts of heat transfer, atmospheric science, and marine biology. By the end of this lesson, students will not only understand the science behind climate change but also feel empowered to discuss its far-reaching impacts on habitats, ecosystems, and human societies. This comprehensive approach ensures that students grasp the interconnectedness of Earth’s systems and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Aligned with key KS3 curriculum links, this lesson provides a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning. It’s an ideal way to spark curiosity, foster environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation of climate scientists and ocean advocates. Curriculum links Science KS3 Biology Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things. Chemistry Earth and atmospheric science, including climate change and its effects on the environment. Physics Energy, heat transfer, and the role of the atmosphere and oceans in regulating climate. Learning outcomes Connect climate change to changes in the ocean List and describe climate change impacts in the ocean Categorise the different aspects of climate change and its impacts Create a diagram to show the linkages in climate change