High School: Ocean Science and Marine Biodiversity

Survey fascinating Ocean ecosystems, from tide pools to the depths of the middle Pacific. Explore how to reduce the negative effects of human activities on marine biodiversity.

 

The Ocean is home to a fascinating variety of ecosystems, from tide pools along the shore to the depths of the middle Pacific. Dive below the surface to explore marine biodiversity and learn how to protect our Ocean.

Students will explore a variety of ecosystems, including California’s own kelp forests, where sea lions, dolphins and whales roam. They will examine how human activities are changing these ecosystems and how marine creatures cope with the changes. Students will examine the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to learn how plastics move around the Ocean. The class will also identify  marine biologists working to protect the diversity of sea life. Activities will include dissection of organisms and individual projects. 

What You Will Learn

Students in High School: Ocean Science and Marine Biodiversity will:

• Get an introduction to marine biodiversity and learn how to help protect the Ocean
• Learn about different marine ecosystems and how they function independently and together
• Explore how living things in ocean habitats cope with changes in pressure, density, and temperature
• Look at how human activities are affecting these ecosystems
• See how the work of research scientists help protect Ocean biodiversity
• Dissect animals to get a sense of how specialized Ocean life is

Return to the Sally Ride Science online professional website here. 

Note: Upon successful enrollment of a section, students will receive a confirmation email from our Student Services team. This email will include a link to an authorization form that is required to be completed within 72-hours of enrollment. 

Course Number: MARI-90055
Credit: 1.50 unit(s)