The Water Cycle: Water, Snow and Ice

Please login to favourite this article.

What happens to the water cycle somewhere as cold as Antarctica?

This extended resource is designed for Year 7 Earth and Space students who are learning about the water cycle and states of matter. It covers the relationship between density and temperature, climate change and the human impact on the water cycle. You will find starter and plenary activities, practical investigations and guides, suggested solutions and student worksheets, all mapped to the curriculum and themed around Antarctica.

A pinnacled iceberg near Casey station, Antarctica. Credit: Jordan Smith, 2014 / AAD.

In this learning sequence, students investigate water cycles, discover the different types of ice found in Antarctica and how it forms. They conduct experiments to investigate density, salinity and temperature and will discuss how these factors influence ocean movements. Students will find out how scientists undertake research to gather data about changes to ice in Antarctica. They will also create their own interview with a science character to show what they’ve learnt about changes to ice in Antarctica.

Login or Sign up for FREE to access these educational resources.

This resource is supported by the Australian Antarctic Division.

The Royal Institution of Australia is the official education partner of the Australian Antarctic Division.

Year: 7

Topics:

Earth and Space Sciences: Renewable/non-renewable resources

Additional: Careers, Maths, Technology.

Concepts (South Australia):

Earth and Space Sciences: The Earth’s Surface

Years:

7