TV on a Rolling Cart

Why is the ocean salty?

From Mystery Doug

Why is the ocean salty?
6 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScience
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why is the ocean salty?" -- and follows the clues. Rivers wash dissolved salt and minerals out of rocks and carry them to the sea, where the salt builds up over time. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why is the ocean salty?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about salt, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: salt, mineral, ocean.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why is the ocean salty?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.