Exploring the Mysteries of Our Oceans

Exploring the Mysteries of Our Oceans

A Journey Through New Zealand's Marine Environment Year 6 Science and Geography

WALT: Understanding Ocean Basics

Oceans cover 71% of Earth's surface New Zealand is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean Our oceans contain 97% of Earth's water Success Criteria: I can describe what makes oceans unique

Ocean Layers: From Surface to Seafloor

{"left":"Sunlight Zone (0-200m): Where most sea life lives, warm and bright\nTwilight Zone (200-1000m): Dim light, cooler temperatures","right":"Midnight Zone (1000-4000m): Completely dark, very cold\nAbyssal Zone (4000m+): Deepest, highest pressure, strange creatures"}

Ocean Zone Challenge

Match the sea creature to its zone! Work in pairs to sort creature cards Discuss why each animal lives in its specific zone Extension: Research one creature's adaptations

WALT: Discovering Ocean Currents and Tides

Ocean currents are like underwater rivers The East Auckland Current affects NZ's climate Tides are caused by the moon's gravity Success Criteria: I can explain how currents and tides work

Think and Share

How do you think Māori navigators used ocean knowledge to sail between islands? What signs from the ocean might tell us about weather changes? How do currents help or challenge modern sailors?

WALT: Exploring Marine Ecosystems

Food chains start with tiny plankton Coral reefs are ocean rainforests Kelp forests provide homes for many species Success Criteria: I can describe how ocean food chains work

New Zealand's Marine Protected Areas

Design Your Own Marine Reserve

Choose a location around New Zealand List 3 species you want to protect Explain why this area needs protection Present your reserve to the class

Our Ocean Responsibility

"Kia mau ki tō reo, kia mau ki tō whenua, kia mau ki tō moana" Hold fast to your language, your land, and your ocean - Māori Proverb