Student Activities
- Grade Level:
- Lower Elementary: Pre-Kindergarten through Second Grade
- Subject:
- Science
Acadia National Park, located on the coast of the state of Maine, has many tidepools. Tidepools are made when the ocean leaves behind water on rocks. Many animals depend on tidepools.
Have students observe the Seafoam on the Coast video and generate I Notice, I wonder statements. These statements help promote descriptive observations, thoughtful questions, & relatable connection and can be used to complement a student-centered discussion.
For more information on sea foam:
∙ What is sea foam?
This white and yellow fluff being tossed around in the wind is called sea foam. Bubbles commonly form where the waves are breaking. Most simply rise to the surface, burst, and release salt spray into the air. However, during heavy wave action, organic matter (like algae and plankton) and fine sediments get stirred up. These create surface tension that allows bubbles to cluster and persist and voila… sea foam!
∙ When did this happen?
There was a big storm happening the day of this video. It occurred in March of 2016. It usually doesn’t look like this here.
∙ Where did this happen?
This video was taken at Arey (eye-ree) Cove on the Schoodic Peninsula of Acadia National Park. This cove opens up into the Gulf of Maine, which is all part of the Atlantic Ocean.
∙ The Schoodic Peninsula:
This is the only part of Acadia National Park on the mainland. The rest of Acadia is on many islands. It’s about a 1-hour drive away from Mount Desert Island, where most of Acadia is. Schoodic is also known for its quiet hiking trails, bike paths, and fun campground. A successful research and education facility is also housed on the Schoodic Peninsula.
∙ How common is sea foam?
Park rangers who work at Schoodic filmed this sea foam, and it’s not too common. Seeing this much sea foam is rare... only around a couple times a year do conditions cause this much. You may see a lesser quantity of sea foam after other storm events.
∙ Schoodic Point:
A little further down the road from this cove, Schoodic Point sticks out farther into the ocean and is more exposed than sheltered. The wave energy is usually higher there than in a protected cove. It’s always important to be sure to keep a safe distance from the ocean waves and beware of slippery rocks.
∙ Shoreline Animals:
Animals along the shoreline have special adaptations to deal with the challenges of this habitat, including the crashing waves. Barnacles glue themselves to rocks, sea stars use a sticky suction, and crabs can tuck themselves into sheltered nooks..
Materials
Last updated: August 19, 2021