Plankton Studies
Plankton and Biofilm
Students learn about plankton’s essential role in the food chain and as an oxygen producer. After a brief microscope-use lesson, plankton samples are prepared by the students and then independently examined. Collective group viewing of specimens is also achieved with our video microscope.
Invasive Species and Ballast Water
Students are introduced to native and non-native species harming our Chesapeake Bay and the global environment. Through an interactive modeling activity, students find that all organisms struggle to collect resources for survival, and that there may be advantages and disadvantages to both native and invasive species. Students then use microscopes to examine microscopic and macroscopic organisms that have been global examples of introduced species via ballast.
Sizing Plankton in Ballast Challenge
Students are introduced to the technique of removing invasive organisms from ballast water with a filtration demonstration, and then use microscopes to observe plankton of various sizes. They identify these organisms with a key, and then organize them by size from smallest to largest. The students part with a clear understanding of how difficult it can be to remove such tiny creatures from our ships’ ballast!
Make Your Own Ballast Water Filter
Students play creative scientists by making their own filters and testing their effectiveness at removing microscopic organisms from the water. Students choose from a list of various supplies (such as sand, powdered charcoal, cotton balls, window screening, etc) with beakers and funnels to create the best possible filtration device. Students use microscopes to examine their water sample both before and after filtration, as well as record and discuss observations with classmates.