Activity:  Examining Short Wave Electromagnetic Spectrum (EM)

Pre-Activity:  Intro to EM radiation.

Do Now:  Quiz on electricity and magnetism.

Aim:  To solidify knowledge of a universal concept.

Major Assignment:  Note-taking on the short waves of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Processes, Skills, Goals:  Understanding the basics of short wave EM radiation in the context of remote sensing and natural habitat analysis.

Content:  The Short Wave Portion of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

Instructions:  Present definitions and examples of short wave radiation.  Narrow the focus to an impact on marine life.  Explain that short wavelength EM waves range from Gamma Rays, with wavelengths the size of atomic nuclei (10 exp -14 meters) to X-rays the size of atoms (10 exp -10 meters) to above the ultraviolet, the size of molecules (10 exp -8 meters).

Materials:  Slide show of short wave EM definitions and examples.

Guiding Questions: What moves when light waves race around the room?  (EM energy).  Can short EM waves burn with their energy?  What do x-rays show?  What is ultraviolet radiation?  Can we see it?  How do you think UV protection work?

Homework:   Study for quiz on short EM waves.