The oceans contain 97.5% of the Earth's water and cover 71% of its surface. Sea level depends on global climate, and the Earth's climate is changing. We have reached the point where the oceans can no longer absorb the waste we throw into it. We offer a global scientific approach for middle school students by covering critical factors including what and where salt water is and how human activity and climate change is affecting the purity of the oceans and the quantity and health of its sea life. All concepts and vocabulary are presented in a way that makes it accessible to students and easier to understand. Our resource is comprised of reading passages, comprehension questions, hands-on activities and overhead transparencies. 60 Pages/6 Overheads