Introduction
Exploring the Intertidal Zone
The intertidal zone is a unique area of the vast ocean that we can explore without leaving our own environment. This zone exists between the highest high tide and the lowest low tide, creating a narrow band filled with a variety of organisms. These organisms must adapt to both the exposure to air and the specific type of substrate they inhabit, whether it's rock, mud, or sand. While intertidal zones may make up only a small part of our expansive oceans, the insights gained from studying them can enhance our understanding of marine ecosystems as a whole.
Many people enjoy "taking walks along the beach" without realizing that they are actually traversing the intertidal zone. Let's embark on a journey through this fascinating area and discover why it often goes unnoticed!
The primary objective of our WebQuest is to explore and learn about the diverse animals and plants that inhabit the intertidal zone and their unique environment. You will navigate various websites that provide detailed information on the different organisms that thrive between the highest and lowest tides. By engaging with these resources, you will acquire the knowledge needed to identify these organisms and complete the accompanying worksheet effectively.
Key Concepts
In a rocky intertidal zone, such as at Sandy Neck, many organisms reside directly on the surface of the rocks. These organisms are referred to as epifauna.
The upper intertidal area, which experiences constant wetness from wave splashes and sprays, can extend even higher than the typical high tide line.
In soft-bottom habitats, organisms often lack a solid surface to attach themselves to, leading many to burrow into the soft sand. This characteristic can make it challenging to observe a wide variety of creatures in these environments.
Mussels are significant competitors in these zones; however, their populations are regulated by sea stars, which prey on them. Keep this in mind when exploring and observing your intertidal surroundings.
By using this WebQuest, you will ........
-
learn more about the intertidal zone that you might have not previously known about..
-
discover how rocky, mud, soft, etc. bottoms of the seafloor affect the organisms that inhabit it....
-
experience firsthand the effects of the habitat, high and low tide, and exposure to air on the intertidal zone and its inhabitants...
Task
- Choose a partner (optional)
- Research online intertidal animals
- Research environmental constraints of the intertidal zone
- Visit the beach
Process
Complete the WebQuest in the following order:
If you’d like to work with a partner, you may work with a partner in order to complete this WebQuest. Both partners must fill out the Intertidal Worksheet provided, even though you both went together (please turn one in for each student).
1. (OPTIONAL) Choose a partner to work with who will be available to visit a sandy bottom intertidal zone with you and will be willing to do research with you.
Name of partner__________________________________________
2. Research, using the internet and websites provided, the different animals living in the intertidal zone using the following websites to understand their habits
a. if they are active at high tide or low tide
b. how exposure affects them
c. movements
d. their biological importance (role) to the intertidal zone
3. Research the effects of the environment (ocean spray, air exposure, bottom type) using the resources linked above.
Please note: (steps 2 and 3 should not take more than a class period and you should submit notes you took)
4. Decide on a day to visit the intertidal zone locally (beaches to visit include-Sandy Neck, Craigeville, Kalmus or another sandy beach along Cape Cod that is pre-approved by your teacher).
a. Make sure to check NOAA Weather for tide times and weather information for your location.
b. Take the Intertidal Worksheet to the beach with you
5. Visit your location. Fill out the Intertidal Worksheet while there and take your 5 pictures. Remember you must be in one of the pictures!
7. Submit your work.
Evaluation
Intertidal Zone WebQuest Rubric
Intertidal Zone WebQuest Rubric
| Criteria | 4 Points | 3 Points | 2 Points | 1 Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research Depth | Comprehensive research demonstrating thorough understanding of intertidal zone ecosystems, including detailed notes from multiple sources | Solid research with good coverage of intertidal zone characteristics | Basic research with limited source exploration | Minimal research with superficial understanding |
| Field Observation Worksheet | Completely filled out worksheet with precise, detailed observations of organisms, their characteristics, and environmental interactions | Mostly complete worksheet with clear observations and some minor gaps | Partially completed worksheet with limited detailed observations | Incomplete or poorly completed worksheet |
| Photographic Evidence | 5+ high-quality, clear photos including a creative selfie, demonstrating careful observation and engagement with the intertidal zone | 5 photos meeting basic requirements with good clarity | 3-4 photos with some documentary value | Fewer than 3 photos or poor quality images |
| Environmental Analysis | Sophisticated analysis of how environmental factors (tide, substrate, exposure) impact organism survival and adaptation | Clear understanding of environmental influences on intertidal organisms | Basic recognition of environmental impacts | Limited or incorrect understanding of environmental interactions |
| Scientific Terminology | Consistently uses advanced marine biology terminology accurately and appropriately | Uses most scientific terms correctly | Occasional use of scientific terminology | Minimal use of scientific language |
| Partner Collaboration | Exceptional collaboration, with clear evidence of shared research and mutual contribution | Good collaborative effort with some shared work | Limited collaboration with minimal shared responsibility | Little to no collaborative engagement |
Grading Scale:
- 20-24 points: Excellent
- 15-19 points: Proficient
- 10-14 points: Developing
- 0-9 points: Beginning
Conclusion
The intertidal zone is a unique area of the vast ocean that we can explore without leaving our own environment. While intertidal zones may make up only a small part of our expansive oceans, the insights gained from studying them can enhance our understanding of marine ecosystems as a whole.
Teacher Page
check links before assigning
Assess student work holistically, considering the complexity of marine ecosystem understanding and individual student capabilities.