SCIENCE A new study is calling on the world’s sailors to help map the oceans’ phytoplankton, microscopic organisms that form the bedrock of marine food webs. (BBC) Use our resources to learn how plankton makes the world go ’round. Watch this video to learn how to use the free Secchi app—then use it! Want more information on plankton? Of course you do! Watch this awesome … Continue reading Help Map Ocean Plankton
SPORTS Athletes are mushing across the Alaskan wilderness in hopes of becoming top dog in the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. (National Geographic News) Read our interview with current Iditarod leader Jeff King to better understand what it takes to win the ‘Last Great Race.’ Discussion Ideas Read through our terrific 2010 article on the Iditarod. What are some of the most difficult obstacles … Continue reading The ‘Last Great Race’ Is On
HEALTH Warmer temperatures are causing malaria to spread to higher altitudes, a study suggests. (BBC) Use our resources to better understand how communities are adapting to the threat of malaria. Discussion Ideas The BBC article, based on research published in the journal Science, says that malaria, typically a tropical disease, is being documented in higher altitudes. Take a look at the map above, which shows areas … Continue reading Malaria Reaches New Heights
WORLD Crimea has long been a strategic and geopolitical prize. Ancient Cimmerians and Greeks, followed by the Goths and Venetians, were just a few of the embattled peninsula’s many occupiers over the centuries. (National Geographic News) Customize your own map of Crimea with our MapMaker Interactive. Discussion Ideas Why is Crimea in the news? Ukraine is experiencing massive civil unrest (read about some reasons why … Continue reading History of Crimea in Six Maps
TRAVEL Scrawling your name on an ancient monument is usually condemned—except when it isn’t. (The Guardian) Are graffitists “guerilla geographers”? You decide, but don’t try this at home. Discussion Ideas The Great Wall of China now has a section where graffiti is allowed and even encouraged. Do you support this decision? Do you think it will discourage graffiti on other parts of the Great Wall? … Continue reading Graffiti Leaves Its Mark
