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Video Information and Comprehension Questions

Blue Planet: Seasonal Seas


Part I
Before watching the video, consider this.
  • Seasonal changes influence the animals and plants on land as the well as marine life in temperate coastal waters. What do you know about the interdependence of life forms in the ocean?
  • As you watch the program, note examples of how temperature, currents, nutrient supplies, and light affect the organisms that live there. After watching, talk about this.
  • The giant kelp found off the coast of California provides sanctuary and a food source for many species of marine life. Describe the connection of kelp to the organisms along the temperate coastline.
  • Discuss the roles that kelp plays in this habitat.
Suggested activity
Seaweed has many uses. Research and create a display to show products used in the home that contain kelp and seaweed byproducts.
Part II
Before watching the video, consider this.
  • Marine animals must take risks to survive. As you watch the program, think about the concept of "eat or be eaten."
  • Look for the examples of marine organisms' survival tactics as the temperature of the water changes with the seasons.
After watching, talk about this.
  • According to the program, the survival of marine life often depends on size. Compare two animals from the program, focusing on how size affects their survival.
  • Debate whether the importance of size holds true for land animals as well.
Suggested activity
Research the physical geography of the seafloor in a temperate region. Create a salt-dough map that highlights major features of the seafloor.