Class Discussion Questions for Grade 6 Science: The Impact of Ice Density on Aquatic Life

Hook 1: Ice Sinking vs. Floating (5 Minutes)

Initial Question:

• "What would happen if ice sank instead of floated? How would this affect the fish and other creatures living in lakes and oceans?"

Follow-up Questions:

1. How many of you have seen ice floating on a lake? What do you think would happen if it didn't float?
2. Are there places where ice is important for animals in the water? Can you name any?
3. How does floating ice help keep lakes and oceans from freezing solid during winter?

---

Explore: Hypothesizing Activity (10 Minutes)

Group Discussion Points:

As you brainstorm in your groups, consider the following prompts:

1. Aquatic Life:

   • How would fish and other aquatic animals survive if ice sank?
   • What changes might occur in their habitats?
   • Would some species be more affected than others? Why?

2. Changing Seasons:

   • How would lakes and ponds look in winter if ice sank?
   • What might happen to the temperature of the water?

3. Water Cycle Impact:

   • In what ways might the water cycle be affected by ice sinking?
   • Would that affect where we get our drinking water? How?

Group Activity:

• Write your group's ideas on a large piece of paper. Be prepared to share with the class.

---

Explain: Video and Discussion (10 Minutes)

Video Introduction:

• We will watch a short video on water density and why ice floats. Pay close attention to the information about how ice’s buoyancy affects wildlife.

Video Options:

• "Why Does Ice Float?" (3 minutes)
• "Why is Water Valuable to Life?" (3 minutes)

Post-Video Discussion Questions:

1. What did you learn about the properties of water and ice from the video?
2. How does the density of water change with temperature? Why is this important for aquatic ecosystems?
3. Can you identify any new impacts or changes to aquatic life that you hadn’t thought of before?
4. How would understanding these principles help people who work in environmental science or ecology?

---

Conclusion:

• Wrap up by asking each student to share one new thing they learned today and how this information can help us take care of our water resources.

By organizing the class in this way, we can ensure a comprehensive discussion about the fascinating implications of ice density and its role in the environment. This format aligns with Canadian education standards and encourages critical thinking among students.