Dive into an advanced study on all things sharks with this specialized marine biology course that will have you living every week like it is shark week!

Students will be introduced to foundational concepts in oceanography including identifying Earth’s oceans along with their major features, the chemical and physical properties of seawater, distinguishing the types of ocean currents, and causes of waves and tides, as well as learning about the different oceanic zones. 

Learners will practice the scientific method through a virtual shark dissection, and swim into engaging discussions of shark anatomy and adaptations. We will travel the world on a voyage to better understand where sharks live and why they are considered a keystone species. Students will be challenged to critically evaluate the human-shark relationship and will participate in jawesome discussions about shark conservation models. We will conclude our semester course with a presentation on possible career paths working in shark science, academic advising on how to achieve personal goals, and snorkel into a study of famous shark scientists. 

This course is highly engaging and participation is a MUST! The course will be taught through a blend of show-and-tell with biofacts, videos, slide shows, and discussions. This course covers oceanography units required for Earth Sciences and teachers many Marine Biology Foundational concepts by way of studying sharks. Assignments will be given that make excellent portfolio pieces for homeschool students and virtual learners looking to enhance their knowledge in a fun, fintastic way! 

Week 1: Introduction to Oceanography

Week 2: Shark Anatomy and Physiology

Week 3: Exploring the Scientific Method through a Virtual Shark Dissection

Week 4: Habitats and Distributions of Sharks 

Week 5: Ecological Roles of Sharks

Week 6: The History and Culture of Human-Shark Interactions

Week 7: Shark Conservation and Ecotourism

Week 8: Careers in Shark Science