Student Material

Climate Simulation Activities: Heat Energy and Moving Molecules


The following simulations come from the Ocean Sciences Sequence for Grades 6–8: The Ocean-Atmosphere Connection and Climate Change. Each simulation is part of a complete activity or series of activities on a particular topic within the curriculum sequence. However, the simulations are intended to stand alone, independent of the curriculum, as well. Below are suggested activities for use with the simulations independent of the curriculum.

The following simulation activities derive from Session 1.1 and 1.2 of the OSS 6–8 curriculum. Through the first simulation activity, students explore thermal expansion of water at the macro and molecular levels. Through the second simulation activity, students begin to explore and compare water’s capacity to absorb and store heat energy in contrast to air.

Simulations:
Guiding Question: How does heat energy affect water?
Guiding Question: How does heat energy affect water and air?

  • Language: English
  • Cost: Free