During this unit students are able to explore the kelp forest by wondering about the organisms that live there.
Platform: Kelp Forest
NGSS Alignment
Cross-Cutting Concepts: Observing Patterns
SE Practice: Asking Questions
Integrates the following DCIs:
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- Life Science: 1 – LSI – A, Structure and Function
- Life Science: 1 – LSI – D, Information Processing
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STEM Discovery Process: Make a Difference, Explore & Wonder
Unit Summary
Students will study why the kelp forest is important and how we can protect it. Content will focus on how the kelp forest acts as a habitat for organisms, and how organisms are adapted for this environment.
In the classroom, students build community by making an explorer bracelet, getting to know their instructors, and fishing for organisms in the kelp forest.
At Ocean Discovery’s Living Lab, students will explore the kelp forest by dissecting a holdfast and comparing small organisms found to larger examples in our tanks, observing the life stages of a crab using microscopes, and wondering about the best parameters for kelp to grow.
Students love becoming marine biologists, exploring the outdoors, using microscopes, meeting actual scientists, asking questions and making a million observations!
Curriculum
Building Community
Exploring at the Living Lab:
