C-MORE Science Kit – Ocean Acidification

Grades 6-12

This two-lesson kit familiarizes students with the causes and consequences of ocean acidification: the process by which our ocean is becoming increasingly acidic. Briefly, ocean acidification is caused by increasing atmospheric concentrations of CO₂, some of which dissolves in the ocean and forms an acid. An acidic ocean poses threats to marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs. Ocean acidification is one of the most serious environmental issues facing the planet and is predicted to have devastating impacts within the next century.

Lesson 1 includes a simple hands-on experiment, a short PowerPoint, and optional readings with worksheets. In Lesson 2, students conduct a more in-depth experiment with electronic probes to simulate the process of ocean acidification. A pre- and post- survey is included. Each lesson will require approximately an hour.