This activity is one of a series in the collection, The Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change activities. 

GLOBE protocols and learning activities that complement the Sea Level Change phenomenon are outlined.

GLOBE protocols and learning activities that complement the El Niño Southern Oscillation phenomenon through hands-on investigations are detailed.

Exploring salinity patterns is a great way to better understand the relationships between the water cycle, ocean circulation, and climate. In this mini lesson, students analyze sea surface salinity mapped plots created from the Earth System Data Explorer, paired with questions (and answers) from the Aquarius Mission. Credit: Aquarius Education

Background information on the El Nino Southern Oscillation or ENSO.

Background information on ocean circulation.

In this activity, students will use sea-level rise data to create models and compare short-term trends to long-term trends. They will then determine whether sea-level rise is occurring based on the data.

 Air, Water, Land, & Life: A Global Perspective

The ocean's surface is not level, and sea levels change in response to changes in chemistry and temperature. Sophisticated satellite measurements are required for scientists to document current sea level rise.