Ocean Science Education

The ocean occupies over 70% of the earth's surface and affects everyone who lives on earth. From catastrophic storms to chronic sea level rise, the ocean affects our lives. Whether you live near the coast or inland, the ocean and its interaction with the atmosphere influences climate and weather. Movement of the ocean also affects the lives of aquatic organisms and the dispersion of human pollutants. Our ocean science curriculum guide for educators, titled An Introduction to Our Dynamic Ocean, is based on the Ocean Literacy Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts (OLEP) and provides teachers with a series of hands-on lesson plans/activities that are classroom-ready and scientifically accurate (http://www1.coseecoastaltrends.net/ocean_science).

Ocean Science and Observing Systems

In this program, students access real-time data transmitted by ocean observing systems stationed throughout the world to examine conditions and processes in coastal waters.  They access data via the web to explore optimal habitat ranges for certain fish species or circulation patterns in the Chesapeake Bay, for example.  Students then test their findings by taking field measurements aboard the skipjack, Nathan of Dpicorchester. 

Maryland Core Learning Goals

            Goal 1: Skills and Processes – 1.3.1, 1.3.4, 1.4.1, 1.4.2, 1.4.6
            Goal 2: Concepts of Earth Science – 2.1.2, 2.2.2, 2.3.2
            Goal 3: Concepts of Biology – 3.5.1
            Goal 5: Concepts of Physics – 5.4.2
            Goal 6: Environmental Science – 6.1.2

National Science Education Standards

            Content Standard A: Science as Inquiry
            Content Standard B: Physical Science
            Content Standard C: Life Science
            Content Standard D: Earth and Space Science
            Content Standard E: Science and Technology

Student activity worksheet

Horn Point Laboratory
University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
P.O. Box 775
Cambridge, Maryland 21613-0775
Phone: 410-221-8419
Fax: 410-221-8490
murray@umces.edu