This webpage contains resources, activities and suggestions to complement the teaching of a case study on marine research aimed at Key Stage 3 and 4, focusing on mapping the physical properties of the seafloor.

 You can visit the Using our teaching resources webpage to find out what is on offer.
 

How do we map the seafloor?

 This case study explores the methods archaeologists, geologists and ecologists used to create maps of the seafloor. These maps will inform marine planning, allowing us to use the sea sustainably without damaging our underwater physical and natural heritage.

The case study supports the curriculum by providing a real-life application of science in the workplace.  We will explore how scientists collect and use data about the physical properties of the seafloor, examining different fieldwork methods, such as geophysical survey, sampling and using Geographic Information Systems.

In particular we will look at the use of sound waves in geophysical survey. 

 

 

We recommend starting with the teacher pack, which has all the background information you need to understand this case study.

Case Study
Lesson Image Bank

Click on the link and scroll back down to view the images in the lesson image bank.

  • Physics »
  • How do we map the seafloor?
Sonar \'Fish\'
Multibeam Survey
Sidescan Sonar Survey
Magnetometer Survey
Boomer Survey
Echosounder
Diver Tracking
Wave terms
Wavelength
Single Wavelength
Amplitude
Frequency
How we hear sound.
How we hear sound (plus text).
How we hear sound.
Sound Underwater

[Show as slideshow]
E-Game
Interactive Whiteboard Lessons (currently SMART board)
 Film

 

You can find the Palaeo-Arun reconstruction at Wessex Archaeology’s own channels.

 

Activity Sheets (PDFs)
Explore the Seafloor website also offers