Melting cryosphere and sea level rise

As part of The Climate in Our Hands – Ocean and Cryosphere, the activity “Melting Cryosphere and Sea Level Rise” helps students understand how the melting of different types of ice affects the planet. Through a simple experiment and documentary analysis, students discover that melting sea ice does not cause sea level rise, while melting continental ice does—and explore the vital importance of the cryosphere for freshwater supply.

What is this activity about?

This lesson combines experimentation and document analysis to help students understand the role of the cryosphere in regulating the Earth's climate and freshwater systems. By observing and comparing the melting of sea ice and continental ice, students realize the distinct impacts of each and their contributions to sea level rise. The activity also highlights the broader importance of glaciers and ice caps for freshwater availability in many regions.

Key Information

Subjects: Natural sciences
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus 5 + 10 minutes for preparation)
Teaching method: Scientific experimentation and guided analysis
Key learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of the cryosphere and its different components
- Distinguish between sea ice and continental ice
- Demonstrate that melting sea ice does not raise sea levels, but melting land ice does
- Recognize the cryosphere's role in freshwater supply
- Develop skills in scientific inquiry and experimental design

How does it work?

Introduction (20 min): Discuss consequences of global warming, focusing on sea level rise. Present the cryosphere using Worksheets C1.1–C1.3.

Experiment (40 min + break): → In groups, students simulate sea ice (ice cubes floating in water) and continental ice (ice cubes on a solid object). → Observe water levels before and after melting. → Record and discuss observations.

Analysis (20 min): → Use Worksheet C1.4 to study the role of glaciers in freshwater supply. → Advanced students can explore satellite images with Worksheet C1.5.

Wrap-up (10 min): Reflect on the environmental and societal impacts of glacier melting, including water resources and energy production.

Why use this activity in your classroom?

Concrete and visual: Makes abstract climate concepts tangible
Clarifies key misconceptions: Difference between sea ice and land ice
Real-world relevance: Links melting glaciers to water supplies
Scientific method: Encourages experimentation and observation
Cross-disciplinary: Combines natural sciences, geography, and climate education