Introduction to Marine Biology (Flex Class) Ages 8-13

Dive into the world of sea turtles, fishes, corals, sharks, and many others in an exploration that will take students into the world full of amazing creatures.  Students will  explore areas such as the Great Barrier Reef and learn about the multitude of species of aquatic life that exist but also some of the chemical processes and challenges that these marine organisms face due to our ever-changing environment.  Students will learn about coastal ecology and conservation, which will include exploring conservation groups and how they are helping to protect and conserve organisms.  Students will also be looking at the effects of pollution, invasive species, and processes such as coral bleaching.  We will also study the biological impacts of climate change and how it is affecting marine organisms such as corals, fish, polar bears, walruses, sea lions, penguins, and sea birds.  Students will also explore deep-sea biology and continue to learn about the magnificent creatures of the deep and how they survive. Students will look deeper into processes such as photosynthesis and bioluminescence. Learn about the life cycles and different habitats of underwater organisms and what makes them so amazing and extraordinary.  Also, get an introduction into why some species are at risk for extinction and what can be done to protect them.  

Week 1: The Deep Sea
Week 2: Coral Reefs
Week 3: Estuaries
Week 4: The Arctic

This course is a sequel to part I so it is beneficial to the students that they take part I first to get a foundation of the material presented.  However, part I is not required to take this part of the class. Part I will be continually offered so if you do not see a time that fits your schedule and you would like to take it, please contact me so I can schedule a session to fit your needs.

Students will work with Nearpod, an interactive software program that allows students to participate in discussion boards, answer short quizzes, and watch interactive videos that pertain to course material.  There are no pre-requisites for this course, just a love for animals and the environment.
Students will also work with CK-12 an interactive learning platform, that allows students to answer practice tests, read articles, and work in interactive textbooks. Assignments will be assigned in this platform weekly. Each student will be provided with their own login information to access their assignments and readings, which the teacher will set up.