NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
SUMMARY
Scientists are worried about the melting of Antarctica's ice sheets and what it could mean for sea levels. There's a two-month-long journey underway to conduct research that will better explain what's happening. But it's a journey that provides no guarantees that researchers will even be able to get the data they want. Science correspondent Miles O'Brien reports for our series, Tipping Point.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the News Hour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
View the transcript of the story.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Where is Thwaites Glacier?
- Who are the individuals and groups taking part in the Antarctica expedition?
- Why is the Thwaites Glacier the most crucial to research, according to David Holland of New York University?
- How is the approach to learning about polar science by the Korean government special?
- What are the researchers hoping to do and learn on this expedition?
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
- How significant is the Antarctic expedition to learn why the Thwaites Glacier is melting at such an incredibly fast rate?
- What part of the research expedition interests you the most? Why?
- Would you like to ever take part in such an expedition? Explain.
Media literacy: What do you think are some of the advantages of having a science journalist on board the expedition?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
Join the team live in Antarctica and ask Miles O'Brien your questions over zoom on Tues. Feb. 10 at 12-pm ET!
Students will:
- See how scientists study glaciers using ships, sensors and cutting-edge technology.
- Explore innovative solutions like undersea "sea curtains" to slow ice loss and protect coastlines.
- Hear glaciologists, oceanographers and engineers explain the questions driving their research.
- Learn how science and collaboration leads to real-world solutions to some of our biggest challenges.
Check out our other video lesson featuring the current expedition to Antarctica.
Sign up to receive our weekly newsletter with Daily News Lessons and community events. To provide feedback on News Hour Classroom's resources, including this lesson, click here.
