Intro to Oceanography & Ecology Parent Lesson Plan

Book excerpt: Introduction to Ocean and Ecology Course Description This is the suggested course sequence that allows one core area of science to be studied per semester. You can change the sequence of the semesters per the needs or interests of your student; materials for each semester are independent of one another to allow flexibility. Semester 1: Oceans The oceans may well be earth’s final frontier. These dark and sometimes mysterious waters cover 71 percent of the surface area of the globe and have yet to be fully explored. Under the waves, a watery world of frail splendor, foreboding creatures, and sights beyond imagination awaits. The Ocean Book will teach you about giant squid and other “monsters” of the seas; centuries of ocean exploration; hydrothermal vents; the ingredients that make up the ocean; harnessing the oceans’ energy; icebergs; coral reefs; ships, submarines, and other ocean vessels; the major ocean currents; El Niño; whirlpools and hurricanes; harvesting the ocean’s resources; whales, dolphins, fish, and other sea creatures. Learning about the oceans and their hidden contents can be exciting and rewarding. The abundance and diversity of life, the wealth of resources, and the simple mysteries there have intrigued explorers and scientists for centuries,. A better understanding of our oceans ensures careful conservation of their grandeur and beauty for future generations, and lead to a deeper respect for the delicate balance of life on planet Earth. Semester 2: Ecology Study the relationship between living organisms and our place in God’s wondrous creation! Learn important words and concepts from different habitats around the world to mutual symbiosis as a product of the relational character of God. This is a powerful biology-focused course specially designed for multi-age teaching. Students will: Study the intricate relationship between living organisms and our place in God’s wondrous creation Examine important words and concepts, from different habitats around the world to our stewardship of the world’s resources Gain insight into influential scientists and their work More fully understand practical aspects of stewardship Investigate ecological interactions and connections in creation The Ecology Book encourages an understanding of a world designed, not as a series of random evolutionary accidents, but instead as a wondrous, well-designed system of life around the globe created to enrich and support its different features. Activities provide additional ways to make the learning experience practical.