The Ocean's Role in Weather and Climate

Teachers need accurate information and resources to integrate ocean, coastal, and climate science into local and state curricula. The ocean covers more than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface. The ocean plays a major role in regulating the weather and climate of the planet. The materials offered will help you understand the factors that impact the Earth's weather and climate, and how changes in temperature or air circulation are part of complex, long-term cycles. Understanding the influence of ocean conditions on the Earth’s climate and monitoring changes in ocean conditions are key to predicting climate change.

NOAA's Ocean Service Education offers classroom resources, teacher tutorials and web seminars.