The Day After Tomorrow (2004)


Concept featured in clip:
Location of clip: DVD: 9:03 - 10:49


Play Flickclip Here

Summary of clip: The scene starts underwater looking at an anchor chain. The camera progresses to the surface of the water where a weather tracking buoy is being tossed in the ocean by a storm. A computer alarm sounds at the Headland Climate Research Center in Scotland. The buoy, located off Georges Bank, is indicating a temperature drop of 13° in the ocean. The scientists at the research center ignore the alarm because they think the buoy has been damaged by the storm.

Connection of flickclip to the concept: Within the last 100 years, there have been many strides made in the field of science and technology. There is an interaction between science and technology that allow them both to progress. In the very recent past, the only way to collect data the scientists received from the buoy in a matter of minutes would have been to take a boat and thermometer out to the location and take the temperature manually. In this case, the advances in technology, the weather buoy and the computer system, have allowed scientist to collect scientific data much quicker and in a safer environment.
Suggestions to teachers:
1. Suggested questions for students when viewing the clip:

a. Before weather buoys and computer systems, how would scientists have determined the temperature of the ocean at different locations?

b. Compare science and technology.

c. Why do we have buoys in the ocean relaying information to scientists?

d. What are the advantages of buoys over manual readings?

2. This clip could be used during a unit on science and technology. Students could invent a new piece of technology. Each student would make a brochure to "sell" their technology to the rest of the class. The brochures would include the pros and cons of the technology, as well as cost. Each student would present their final "product" to the entire class.