Big Idea Resource availability and abiotic factors affect algae
growth
Slide 2
Microbes and algae blooms Variables that affect conditions for
algae growth and development Steve Seal Theresa Waters
Slide 3
Objective To conceptualize and understanding of the different
variables that affect microbial algae. Investigate the
counterintuitive nature of ocean temperature and algae growth.
Slide 4
Summary Students will analyze near real time data that reflects
algae concentrations and conditions that might foster that
development Students will be able to predict algae development
given a set of environmental conditions
Slide 5
Procedures 1 Following an introduction of types and
characteristics of microbial algae (from earlier lesson), students
will brainstorm ideas about ocean environments and conditions
necessary for organic growth. Use a graphic organizer to list
information (Circle Map) (possibly need to discuss land plant
needs) KWL Chart
Slide 6
Procedures 2 Students explore the satellite analysis of sea
surface temp (SST) and Chlorophyll and interpret the color index
making inferences about information (use Ocean color site) Lead a
discussion on results
Slide 7
Sea Surface Temp July 2007
Slide 8
Chlorophyll Data July 2007
Slide 9
Discussion Questions 1.What do notice about the two regions on
the west coast and gulf coast in terms of SST and Chlorophyll
2.Compare and contrast the conditions present (using a Venn
Diagram) 3.Make a prediction about the causes of high chlorophyll
and differing SSTs
Slide 10
Procedures 3 Lead into discussion of nutrients and the
important part they play in the growth and development of algae
blooms. (Using Phytopia-phyto factors video #1, the Bigelow webpage
on phytoplankton, or direct teacher instruction)
Slide 11
Procedures 3 (cont) Introduce the topic of upwelling and
compare to nutrient run-off as a factor in algae blooms (go back to
the satellite maps investigated) DEFINITION: Bring in cold nutrient
rich water pushed by wind into warmer coastal areas, as opposed to
nutrient run-off. (film on upwelling-WHOI) upwelling video
Slide 12
Procedures 3 (cont) Compare to Nitrogen run-off report included
in lesson planpictures follow from article
Slide 13
Mississippi River Watershed
Slide 14
Mississippi River Delta run-off
Slide 15
Procedure 4 Introduce algae blooms and through web quest
activities students will discover the sources and effects of these
blooms phytoplankton information Harmful Algae : Red Tide OceanLink
| Biodviersity - Ask a Marine Scientist C-MORE | Center for
Microbial Oceanography: Research and EducationC-MORE | Center for
Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education
Slide 16
Procedures 5 Compare and contrast the types of blooms and
effects in different areas, and review information found in
webquest.
Slide 17
Slide 18
Assessment Predict if an algae bloom is likely given a series
of conditions. Using satellite pictures of different months
(SST/Chlorophyll) as a group activity, students will decide if
conditions are right for an algae bloom (stand up if yes, remain
seated if no). Give students individual satellite pictures to
analyze in terms of conditions for blooms or situation
possibilities.
Slide 19
Slide 20
Standards The Number of organisms an ecosystem can support
depends on resources available and abiotic factors (National) Most
life in the ocean exists as microbes (ocean lit) Ocean habitats are
defined by environmental factors (ocean lit)
Slide 21
Slide 22
Resources OceanColor Home Page C-MORE | Center for Microbial
Oceanography algae blooms and phytoplankton Ask a Marine Scientist
Harmful Algae : Red Tide WaterPollution (article on Gulf of
MexicoWaterPollution
Slide 23
Fun Links Microbe Personality Quiz
planetquest.jpl.nasa.gov/AlienSafari