This resource describes the current state of fish populations in the oceans and the industrial fishing practices that have lead to the critical state of fish stocks globally.
A discussion of how other animals (such as dolphins, turtles, and seabirds) are caught in nets and the solutions to limit overfishing are included.
The video is accompanied by self-check questions, an article with links to more information, and discussion questions.
Teaching Tips
Positives
Animations effectively visualize the variety of industrial fishing practices that threaten global fish populations.
The video suggests creating more marine reserves, banning harmful fishing practices, enforcing current laws, and consumer education as solutions.
Additional Prerequisites
Teachers and students must create an account and log in to engage with the self-check questions and for commenting in the "Discuss" portion of the site.
A few of the linked resources in the "Dig Deeper" portion are broken, but the majority are active and useful.
Differentiation
Before watching the video, consider leading a discussion about the environmental impacts of human food choices. Ask questions to determine if your students understand how fish and other meat products are produced at a large scale.
Ask students if they can propose additional solutions to help combat the overfishing problem. Could they participate in "Meatless Mondays?" Are there similar concerns for aquaculture? Are there certifications they could look for as consumers?
This TED-Ed talk addresses if we will ever run out of fish in the ocean. As human population continues to increase, the demand for seafood will increase with it, and many fish species are already overfished. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
ESS3: Earth and Human Activity
MS-ESS3-4 Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth's systems.
HS-ESS3-4 Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.
HS-ESS3-6 Use a computational representation to illustrate the relationships among Earth systems and how those relationships are being modified due to human activity.
