Ocean Sunlight
What is the main idea of Ocean Sunlight?
The book explains how sunlight powers the ocean's food chain, starting with tiny plants called phytoplankton that use sunlight to make food through photosynthesis.
Who is Clyde Roper, and what is his role in the book "Giant Squid?
Clyde Roper is a marine biologist and squid expert. He has spent much of his career studying giant squids and trying to find and observe them in the wild.
What is Moonshot about?
Moonshot tells the story of the Apollo 11 mission—how three astronauts flew to the Moon, landed, walked on it, and returned safely to Earth.
What job did William Carlos Williams have besides being a poet?
He was a doctor. He treated patients during the day and wrote poetry at night.
What is a giant squid, and why is it so mysterious?
Answers will vary.
A giant squid is a deep-sea creature that can grow over 40 feet long. It's mysterious because it lives so deep in the ocean that scientists have rarely seen it alive in its natural habitat.
How does sunlight help feed the seas?
Sunlight allows phytoplankton to perform photosynthesis, which creates food for themselves and, in turn, for the rest of the marine life that feeds on them.
Why is it hard to study giant squids?
They live deep underwater, where it's dark, cold, and hard for humans or machines to go. They also don’t come to the surface often.
What does “liftoff” mean?
Liftoff is the moment a rocket leaves the ground and begins its journey into space.
Why did William Carlos Williams keep writing even though he was busy with work?
Because he loved words and found joy in expressing himself through poetry. Writing helped him see beauty in the everyday.
Do sharks really attack people often?
No. Shark attacks are very rare. Most sharks don’t even like the taste of humans.
What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants (including phytoplankton) use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to make their own food and release oxygen.
What special features help the giant squid survive in the deep ocean?
It has huge eyes to see in the dark, long tentacles with suction cups to grab prey, and a beak to eat with. It also uses jet propulsion to move quickly.
Why was landing on the Moon such a big accomplishment?
Answers will vary. (Sample answer) It had never been done before. It took years of planning, science, and courage to make it happen.
Who is "Action Jackson"?
"Action Jackson" is a nickname for Jackson Pollock, a famous American painter known for his energetic and unique painting style.
How do scientists find clues about giant squids without seeing them alive?
They study squids that wash ashore, are found in fishing nets, or are found in the stomachs of whales.
How does this book help us understand the importance of oceans to life on Earth?
It shows that oceans aren't just water—they’re alive with plants and animals that support Earth's oxygen and food systems. Answers will vary- helpful, encouraging
How can people stay safe while swimming in the ocean?
Swim in groups, avoid wearing shiny jewelry, don’t swim at night, and follow safety signs and lifeguard warnings.
Why did the astronauts wear space suits on the Moon?
There’s no air on the Moon, so the suits gave them oxygen and protected them from the extreme heat and cold.
What is a recital?
A recital is a performance, often of music or singing, usually given by a solo performer or a small group.
Name an astronauts on Apollo 11
Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins.
What can we do to protect the ocean and the life in it?
We can reduce pollution, fight climate change, avoid overfishing, and learn more about the ocean to help keep it healthy.
What challenges do scientists face when exploring the deep sea?
They face extreme pressure, darkness, cold temperatures, and the difficulty of using equipment that can survive and send back information.
What famous words did Neil Armstrong say when he stepped on the Moon?
“That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.”
How did Alvin Ailey help other dancers?
(Sample answer) He gave opportunities to African American dancers and created a place where they could perform and express themselves.
Who was Alvin Ailey?
Alvin Ailey was a famous African American dancer and choreographer who founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.