Let's create continuous conversations about climate change education: Spreading the Sediment of Science!

How Oysters Can Stop a Flood

Provided by: Vox |Published on: April 27, 2021

Videos Grades 6-8, 9-12

Synopsis

This video describes the benefits of oyster reefs for erosion control and preventing damage from strong storms and floods.
The ecological benefits of oyster reefs are well-described in this video including flood control, erosion control, habitat engineering, and water filtration.
The video opens by referencing the popularity of oysters in New York City before the the surrounding oyster reefs were overharvested.

Subjects: Biology, Engineering

Authors: Vox

Region: North America, New York City

Languages: English

Positives

The video is short and provides nice animations to illustrate ecological concepts and demonstrate the historical ecosystems in the New York area.

Prerequisites

Students should be familiar with the concept of sea level rise as a consequence of climate change.
There may be a commercial before the video.

Differentiation & Implementation

Consider having students draw pictures to demonstrate the positive effects of oyster reefs to coastal ecosystems.
If students have never seen the ocean or coast, use Google Maps or another resource to help them visualize how intertidal habitats have a relationship with the nearby land.
Other resources related to this topic include this video about mussels and this video about preventing coastal erosion.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

Standards

Resource Type and Format