This engaging nine-lesson unit for KS3 Geography introduces students to crucial aspects of ocean science and climate change, providing a comprehensive exploration of one of the 21st century’s most pressing issues. Covering 70% of Earth’s surface and absorbing over 90% of excess heat from global warming, the ocean plays a vital role in our planet’s systems and human livelihoods. Lesson Progression: Lesson 1 Mapping the Ocean Introduces ocean classification and mapping, emphasising interconnectedness. Lesson 2 Climate Change - Past to Present Explores climate science fundamentals and research methods. Lesson 3 The Carbon Cycle Examines the Earth’s carbon cycle and blue carbon concept. Lesson 4 Climate Impacts Investigates effects on vulnerable ecosystems like the Arctic and coral reefs. Lesson 5 How We Use the Ocean Explores ecosystem services and human impacts. Lesson 6 Ocean Resources - Human Impact Case Studies Focuses on the continental shelf and resource management. Lesson 7 Nature-based Climate Solutions Compares carbon sequestration in various ecosystems. Lesson 8 Climate Action, Policy & Science Traces the history of ocean-climate understanding and action. Lesson 9 Ocean and Climate Unit Assessment Summative assessment of key concepts and applications. Throughout the unit, students develop skills in: Analysing maps and data Understanding complex Earth systems Evaluating human-environment interactions Critical thinking about sustainability and conservation The lessons align with KS3 Geography curriculum requirements, covering locational knowledge, physical and human geography, and geographical skills. Cross-curricular connections with Science, Maths, and PSHE enrich the learning experience. By the end of the unit, students will have a comprehensive understanding of ocean-climate systems, their importance, and the challenges they face. They’ll be equipped to think critically about environmental issues and consider potential solutions, fostering a sense of global citizenship and environmental stewardship.

This engaging lesson introduces students to the complex world of ocean geography, tracing the evolution of our understanding from ancient times to modern oceanography. Students will explore various ways of classifying and mapping our oceans, considering both biophysical characteristics and human-oriented divisions. Key lesson components include: Examining historical perspectives on ocean exploration and mapping Understanding the ocean’s role in the broader Earth system Analyzing different methods of dividing and classifying the ocean Debating the implications of these divisions for ocean management and conservation The lesson incorporates a variety of activities, including class discussions, map analysis, and group work. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of physical geography, cartography, and human-environment interactions. By the end of this lesson, students will be able to: Describe key moments in the history of ocean exploration and oceanography Explain how the ocean connects to other Earth systems Identify and explain various methods of dividing and classifying the ocean Discuss the implications of ocean divisions on future management and conservation Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Understanding how human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Interpret a range of maps, globes and GIS to interpret and analyse places Cross-curricular connections Science: study of the earth and atmosphere History: study of the impacts of European exploration

This comprehensive lesson grounds students in the fundamentals of climate science, exploring the processes that shape our planet’s climate and the methods scientists use to study climate change. Students will engage in a range of activities that bring climate science to life, developing their understanding of both natural and human-induced climate drivers. Key lesson components include: Exploring the fundamental factors that influence Earth’s climate systems Investigating natural climate drivers and distinguishing them from human influences Learning about proxy evidence and how scientists reconstruct past climates Visualising the greenhouse effect through interactive activities Analysing real climate data to develop critical thinking and data interpretation skills This lesson aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and climate processes. It also provides valuable cross-curricular links with Science, particularly in the areas of Earth science and energy. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the basic factors influencing Earth’s climate Describe the concept of climate change and its various drivers Outline methods scientists use to study past climates Demonstrate improved skills in analyzing and interpreting climate data Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Cross-curricular connections Science: Earth and atmosphere; energy

This comprehensive lesson introduces students to the Earth’s Carbon Cycle and the concept of Blue Carbon, highlighting their critical roles in regulating our planet’s climate. Through a series of engaging activities, students will explore the movement of carbon through various Earth systems and understand the importance of coastal ecosystems in carbon sequestration. Key lesson components include: Exploring the carbon cycle and its influence on Earth’s climate Investigating the** links between the carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, and climate change** Introducing the concept of Blue Carbon and its role in carbon sequestration Mapping and analysing major blue carbon habitats using GIS tools Examining human impacts on the carbon cycle and exploring potential solutions This lesson aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and the interaction between human activity and natural systems. It also provides valuable cross-curricular links with Science, particularly in ecosystem studies. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the basic carbon cycle and its components Describe the connection between the carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, and climate change Define blue carbon and explain its importance Identify and locate major blue carbon habitats Discuss human impacts on the carbon cycle and potential mitigation strategies Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locational knowledge of environmental regions Physical geography weather and climate, hydrology Understanding how human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Interpret a range of maps, globes and GIS to interpret and analyse places Cross-curricular connections Science: Ecosystems

This comprehensive lesson examines the impacts of climate change on two of the ocean’s most vulnerable ecosystems: the Arctic and tropical coral reefs. Students will explore how increased atmospheric CO2 affects these ‘sentinel’ environments and consider the implications for both marine life and human societies. Key lesson components include: Investigating the consequences of increased atmospheric CO2 on the ocean Understanding the concept of ‘sentinel’ environments in climate change research Analysing Arctic sea ice data to observe long-term climate trends Comparing healthy and bleached coral reefs through video analysis Reflecting on conservation efforts and international collaboration needed to address these issues The lesson incorporates a variety of engaging activities, including mind mapping, data analysis, video observations, and creative communication tasks. It aligns closely with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of locational knowledge, physical geography, and human-environment interactions. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the range of potential impacts of increased CO2 in the atmosphere on oceans Locate and describe areas of the ocean most affected by climate change Describe how Arctic and coral reef habitats are being negatively impacted by human activity Discuss appropriate human responses to these environmental challenges This engaging lesson provides students with a deep understanding of climate change impacts on critical ocean ecosystems, fostering both scientific literacy and environmental awareness. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Locate the world’s countries, using maps to focus on major ocean regions, concentrating on their environmental regions Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate; Physical geography relating to weather and climate, including the change in climate from the Ice Age to the present; and glaciation and hydrology. Build on their knowledge of globes, maps, and atlases, and apply and develop this knowledge routinely in the classroom and in the field. Cross-curricular connections Science: Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things; Earth and atmospheric science, including climate change and its effects on the environment

This lesson introduces students to the concept of ecosystem services, with a focus on the ocean environment. Students will explore the vital benefits that healthy ocean ecosystems provide to all humans, particularly coastal communities, and examine the impacts of climate change and resource exploitation on these services. Key lesson components include: Understanding the concept of ecosystem goods and services Exploring specific ecosystem services provided by ocean environments Investigating human impacts on ocean ecosystem services Examining case studies of coastal communities affected by ecosystem degradation Reflecting on the fairness and sustainability of ocean resource exploitation The lesson incorporates engaging activities such as mind mapping, cause-and-effect diagramming, and group presentations. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of human-environment interactions, resource management, and sustainability. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain the concept of ecosystem goods and services, with a focus on the ocean Discuss human impacts on ocean ecosystem services Describe challenges faced by coastal communities due to ecosystem degradation Reflect on the fairness and sustainability of ocean resource exploitation This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to consider the interconnectedness of human well-being and ocean health, fostering critical thinking about environmental sustainability and social justice issues. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate Economic activity Locational knowledge of environmental regions Cross-curricular connections Science: Relationships in an ecosystem, environmental changes, and effects on living things

This in-depth lesson introduces students to the continental shelf, a crucial yet often overlooked part of the ocean environment. Students will explore the economic importance of this area, its various uses, and the potential conflicts between exploitation and conservation. Key lesson components include: Understanding the geography and importance of the continental shelf Exploring the diverse resources and uses of the continental shelf Investigating the impacts of fishing and other human activities on marine ecosystems Examining case studies of human exploitation and its consequences Reflecting on the** balance between economic activities and environmental conservation** The lesson incorporates a variety of engaging activities, including map analysis, video observations, group research projects, and discussions. It aligns with the KS3 Geography curriculum, covering aspects of physical geography, resource management, and human-environment interactions. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain why the continental shelf is a special part of the ocean Describe the resources and uses of the continental shelf Discuss how economic exploitation can impact marine ecosystems Analyse real-life examples of human activities on the continental shelf and their consequences This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to consider the complexities of managing ocean resources, fostering critical thinking about sustainable development and marine conservation. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understand how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate How human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems Cross-curricular connections Science: conserving biodiversity

This wide-ranging lesson focuses on carbon sequestration and its role in mitigating climate change. Students will explore three major carbon stores: forests, blue carbon ecosystems, and the continental shelf, gaining insight into how natural systems can help combat global warming. Key lesson components include: Recapping knowledge of the continental shelf and its role in carbon storage Introducing the Convex Seascape Survey and its research on seabed carbon Comparing carbon storage potential of different ecosystems through an interactive quiz Clarifying key carbon-related terms and units Engaging in a decision-making exercise to evaluate various climate action strategies The lesson features a mix of activities, including class discussions, quizzes, and a group debate. It aligns with the KS3 Geography and Science curricula, covering aspects of climate change, ecosystems, and environmental management. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Explain how ocean and coastal habitats help store carbon Describe how human activities can disrupt blue carbon capture and storage Evaluate the importance of protecting blue carbon habitats Analyse and compare different climate action strategies This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to think critically about complex environmental issues and the potential of nature-based solutions to climate change. Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understanding how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate. Understanding how human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems. Communicate geographical information in a variety of ways, including through maps, numerical and quantitative skills, and writing at length. Cross-curricular connections Science: ecosystems, carbon cycle Mathematics: working with large numbers and units, area calculations, proportions and ratios PSHE: discussing personal and societal responsibilities towards the environment

This engaging lesson takes students on a journey through the history of ocean and climate science, policy, and activism. By creating a timeline, students will explore the interconnections between scientific discoveries, policy decisions, and public action in addressing ocean-climate issues. Key lesson components include: Exploring the historical development of our understanding of ocean-climate systems Creating a multi-track timeline of key events in science, policy, and activism Analysing connections between scientific discoveries, policy changes, and public action Identifying and discussing success stories in ocean-climate protection efforts The lesson centres around a collaborative timeline creation activity, supplemented by group presentations and class discussions. It aligns with KS3 Geography and Science curricula, covering aspects of environmental history, scientific progress, and civic engagement. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to: Identify key scientific discoveries related to ocean-climate systems Understand how these discoveries have influenced policy decisions Recognise the role of ocean-climate focused activism in driving change Appreciate success stories in ocean-climate action This thought-provoking lesson encourages students to see the big picture of ocean-climate issues, fostering an understanding of how science, policy, and public action interact to address global environmental challenges. Curriculum links Geography KS3 How human and physical processes interact to influence, and change landscapes, environments How human activity relies on the effective functioning of natural systems Analyse and draw conclusions from geographical data, using multiple sources of increasingly complex information Cross-curricular connections Science: scientific attitudes connecting research and policy PSHE: living in wider world

This final lesson serves as a summative assessment for the Ocean and Climate unit, allowing students to demonstrate their grasp of key concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios. The assessment covers a range of topics including: Blue carbon ecosystems and their role in climate mitigation Human activities on the continental shelf and their impacts Ocean ecosystem services and their importance International climate agreements and ocean protection strategies The lesson is structured around a comprehensive written assessment that includes various question types, from knowledge recall to data analysis and synthesis. This format allows students to showcase their understanding across different skill levels. Key components of the assessment include: Multiple-choice questions to test basic knowledge Short-answer questions to assess deeper understanding Data interpretation tasks related to ocean acidification Extended response questions on ocean protection strategies Curriculum links Geography KS3 Understanding how human and physical processes interact to influence and change landscapes, environments, and the climate How human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems Using a range of methods including maps, numerical and quantitative skills to analyze information

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

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

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 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

This comprehensive lesson explores the fundamental aspects of climate change, from its causes to the methods scientists use to study Earth’s climatic history. Students will delve into the greenhouse effect, examine evidence of past climate changes, and engage in hands-on analysis of sediment cores. Students will: Unravel the greenhouse effect: explore the mechanisms behind global warming and its impact on our planet. Journey through Earth’s climate history: discover how scientists uncover information about past climates and the evidence they use. Analyse ancient climate data: engage in a practical sediment core analysis activity, comparing evidence from sediment and ice cores. Interpret proxy data: Learn how scientists use indirect indicators to reconstruct past climates and practice these techniques. By the end of this lesson, students will: Explain why global warming happens Describe how the climate has changed over time Identify the evidence scientists have for climate change Demonstrate techniques in using proxy data to measure climate change This lesson provides students with a deeper understanding of climate change processes and scientific methods, while addressing key areas of the KS3 Science curriculum. **Curriculum links ** Science KS3 Earth and atmosphere: The composition of the atmosphere The production of carbon dioxide by human activity and the impact on climate Evidence for past climate change Working scientifically: Using evidence to support conclusions Analysing data and graphs Investigation skills

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 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

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

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

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