Marine Biology: Animal Adaptations
In this four-week course, learners will explore 4 different adaptations many marine creatures have through project-based investigations.
Laura Petrusic
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(270)
What's included
Homework
1 hour per week. Weekly Work: -One hands on project in art, simulation or experimentation. Project length varies. -2-3 activity journal question responses posted to the classroom.Assessment
Students will be provided with weekly written teacher feed back on submitted work.Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 5
In this 4-week, flexible scheduled class, learners will explore 4 different marine animal adaptation through the creation and sharing of activity based learning projects. Each week learners will be provided with text and video video based content on the following ecosystems. Week 1: Polar Bear Plunge This week learners will explore the structural adaptations a polar bear has to maintain body heat in the it's arctic habitat by conducting a short experiment. Week 2: Whale Call This week learners will explore the physiological adaptation of echolocation by playing a version of tag. Week 3: Squid Camouflage This week learners will explore the structural adaptation of squid color change by creating a model windsock. Week 4: Living Light This week learners will explore the structural and behavior adaptation of bioluminescence by creating a model of an anglerfish. Each week includes an instructional video and activity demonstration, as well as, journal questions to be shared within the classroom. Learners will interact with one another within the classroom via journal entry and project picture posts. In addition, learners will asynchronously work together on a collaborative class Google Jamboard to create categories of animal adaptation.
Learning Goals
Upon completion of this class learners will be able to:
-describe the structural adaptations of blubber and fur in arctic animals.
-describe the mechanisms of the physiological adaptation of echolocation.
-describe the different ways whales use echolocation.
-describe the structural and behavioral adaptation of chromatophores and iridophores in squid.
-describe the physiological and behavioral adaptations of bioluminescence in marine life.
-explain the difference structural, behavioral and physiological adaptations.
-identify key adaptations of marine organisms in relationship to their environment.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Safety First! To complete the echolocation game in week 2 learners, will need a few willing players and a large outdoor space clear of objects they could trip over.
Supply List
Below is a skeletal list of supplies needed to complete the course. A detailed list will be provided the week prior to the start of class. • Blind fold • 2-4 players • Large open outdoor area • 5-gallon bucket • Ice • Timer or watch with a second hand • Digital thermometer • 5-gallon bucket • Tinfoil • Multiple colors of tissue paper including blue, green, yellow, brown • Clear drying washable glue • Paint brush • String or yarn • 3-4 sheets 8x11 white card stock • Stapler • Markers • Scissors • Glow-in-the-dark paint • Paper plates • Dark blue, black or red paint washable paint • Pipe cleaner • Hole punch • Toothpicks • Tape • White card stock
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
- Google Jamboard
- Google Earth
- YouTube
- Padlet
Joined October, 2018
4.9
270reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Florida Teaching Certificate in Science
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Florida Institue of Technology
Bachelor's Degree in Science from University of South Carolina
I strive to create learner-centered, integrated lessons that relate content to students’ lives. I believe that my educational background in the field of marine science, professional teaching degree and extensive experiencing developing/delivering educational programs for all ages, will generate a class experience that fosters learners' appreciation for our oceans and environment. Please see my teacher profile page for more detailed information on my education and teaching experience. Reviews
Live Group Class
$30
for 4 weeks4 weeks
Completed by 4 learners
No live video meetings
Ages: 8-11
