How can humans and ocean mammals communicate over long distances?

Elementary | Daily Do

How can humans and ocean mammals communicate over long distances?

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Is Lesson Plan Lesson Plans Elementary Grade 4

Sensemaking is actively trying to figure out how the world works (science) or how to design solutions to problems (engineering). Students do science and engineering through the science and engineering practices. Engaging in these practices necessitates that students be part of a learning community to be able to share ideas, evaluate competing ideas, give and receive critique, and reach consensus. Whether this community of learners is made up of classmates or family members, students and adults build and refine science and engineering knowledge together.

Lesson Snapshot

Elementary students, as scientists, investigate communication strategies to answer the following driving question: How can humans and ocean mammals communicate over long distances? Students begin by exploring audio of different species of dolphins and whales communicating underwater. Students discuss patterns observed and questions generated. Next, students read an article to answer their questions about whale and dolphin communication and run tests to identify the benefits and failure points of using Morse code to communicate over long distances. Finally, students use their observations and other evidence to explain how whales, dolphins, and humans communicate over long distances.

This lesson is Lesson 2 of the Mysteries of the Deep: UUVs and Digitizing Ocean Communication Playlist

This playlist was created in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and supported by the Northrop Grumman Foundation.

Click the Download PDF button above for the complete Lesson Plan

Materials

Student Materials

Per Group

Internet-connected device
Meterstick

Per Student

Teacher Materials

NG_ES_PLAY_Lesson 2 Slides

Optional Teacher Resources

Additional Ocean, UUV, and Digital Information Resources