Introductory Lesson

This lesson will begin with a video of CNN news coverage of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Prince William Sound, off the southern coast of Alaska. The video, along with Newton Apple Oil Spills, will provide background knowledge of the effects of an oil spill.and its impact on the environment.

The students will participate in cooperative learning activities based on discussion questions written to heighten their critical thinking skills.

What is crude oil and where does come from?
When crude oil spills, does it float or sink?
Tides and currents affect the spread of spilled oil. What are the tides and what are the currents?
What parts of the environment are affected by an oil spill?
How does it affect the marine and wildlife population?
How does the ecosystem work to help clean up an oil spill?
What technology is available to help clean up an oil spill?
Is is possible to clean up an oil spill completely?
What can we do to prevent an oil spill?

Demonstration will follow using water gel crystals.