Students analyze BGC-Argo float data to spot patterns, calculate slopes, and discover where phytoplankton thrive and why it matters for Earth’s climate.

Drift Into Data guides students through real BGC-Argo float graphs to uncover where ocean phytoplankton thrive. Students analyze multiple variables such as nitrate, oxygen, and light while practicing data analysis, slope calculations, and pattern recognition. Using evidence from real float data, they draw conclusions about regions with the highest phytoplankton productivity and connect their findings to the role phytoplankton play in the global carbon cycle. This lesson builds math and science integration skills while showing students how autonomous ocean technology and data reveal the hidden drivers of life in the sea.