Curriculum from the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Students in the Discovery Lab at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Our inquiry-based curriculum is designed to motivate and engage your students and support the California State and National Science Education Standards through classroom or field experiences. Select curriculum by grade level or by activity name.

California and many other states have officially adopted Next Generation Science Standards. Released in April 2013 and welcomed by the science education community, these voluntary standards integrate three important dimensions: science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas and crosscutting concepts. They effectively build science concepts from kindergarten through 12th grade and also incorporate important engineering concepts. We're working on correlating our materials to these new standards. Stay tuned!

Kelp Forest

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Decode a Fish How do different fish survive in their habitats? Students use a fish body part key to "decode" a fish and infer behavior and habitat.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b, e Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a, f Grade 5: 2a, b; 6a, g, h	K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Life Science
Edible Algae What is seaweed? Why is it in ice cream? Students find out by exploring the characteristics of seaweed. They then make seaweed extract and use it to create ice cream.	Grade 3: 1e, f, g; 3a; 5a, c, e, f Grade 4: 2a; 3a; 6b, f Grade 5: 1g; 2f; 6a, d, f, g, i	K-4: Physical Science 5-8: Physical Science
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Rate Your Plate Students order seafood from a mock menu and use a scoresheet based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program to gauge the sustainability of their selection.	Grades 9-12: Biology/Life Sciences 6a, b, c, d; 8b; Earth Sciences 5d; Investigation & Experimentation 1c, d, g, l, m	9-12: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Science and Technology, Science in Personal and Social Perspectives, History and Nature of Science
Shark Anatomy What makes a shark a shark? Students explore shark anatomy by taking part in a debate justifying the importance of specific shark adaptations and physical characteristics.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5a, b Grade 4: 3b; 4b; 6a Grade 5: 2b, c, d; 6a	K-4: Life Science 5-8: Life Science
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Web Site Sea Searchers Handbook: Kelp Forest Chapter (PDF Format) Get great information about the kelp forest habitat and the animals that live there as well as fun kelp forest activities to do as a family or in the classroom. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section External Links AlgaeBase A database of information on terrestrial, marine and freshwater algae. Includes photos, search function and lots of great information. Algae Information (Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History) Information about their algae collection, abstracts from publications and instructions for collecting and preserving algae. Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) Marine Botany Descriptions and photos of current research projects involving coastal ocean habitats, seaweeds and algae. MBARI scientists, engineers and staff collaborate on a range of marine research projects. The projects span the interdisciplinary fields of ocean science, including marine biology, ecology, chemistry and geology. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Kelp Forest and Rocky Subtidal A comprehensive description of an important habitat in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Partnership for the Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO) PISCO is a long-term, large-scale research program aimed at more fully understanding the nearshore environments on the U.S. West Coast. Phycological Society of America This site links to many algae-related scientific publications and has information on opportunities to study algae. Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network (SIMoN) Kelp Forest Overview SIMoN is a long-term program that takes an ecosystem approach to identifying and understanding changes to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Their kelp forest pages include information about the kelp forest habitat in Monterey Bay and ongoing kelp forest monitoring projects. Seaweed Site (National University of Ireland) This site contains information on all aspects of seaweeds and marine algal biology. Virtual Kelp Forest Dive (National Geographic) Venture above and below the waters of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary in this interactive feature, a companion to the Sustainable Seas Expeditions site

Life on the Bay

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Comparing Seals and Sea Otters What makes sea otters and seals unique marine mammals? Students play a game with information cards to compare and review the characteristics of seals and otters.	Grade K: 1a; 2a, b, c; 4a, b, d, e Grade 1: 2a, c; 4b, e Grade 2: 2a; 4c, d, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Website Sea Searchers Handbook (PDF Format) Download the entire handbook or individual chapters about each Monterey Bay habitat, along with the animals that live in them and fun activities to do as a family or in the classroom. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section External Links American Cetacean Society The American Cetacean Society provides a full complement of educational resources and teaching curricula as well as conservation issues and reports regarding most marine mammals. eNature Owned by the National Wildlife Federation, eNature.com provides field guides to marine mammals throughout the world. Marine Mammal Center The Marine Mammal Center rescues and rehabilitates marine mammals then releases them when healthy. Their site includes research and other information about sea otters as well as profiles of marine mammals they've rehabilitated. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Official web site of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary complete with scientific characterizations of important bay habitats, overviews of research programs and information for visitors. National Marine Mammal Laboratory Located in Seattle, the National Marine Mammal Laboratory provides valuable educational resources, library access and careers in marine science. Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network (SIMoN) SIMoN is a long-term program that takes an ecosystem approach to identifying and understanding changes to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Their marine mammals pages include information about the diverse assembly of marine mammals in Monterey Bay and ongoing monitoring projects. Tagging of Pacific Pelagics (TOPP) A collaboration among the world's scientists, the Tagging of Pacific Pelagics program use satellite tagging technologies to track 22 species of pelagic animals, including elephant seals, California sea lions and whales. TOPP hopes to provide insights on where open ocean species breed and feed

Mission to the Deep

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Light in the Deep Sea Students use blue film glasses to observe camouflage strategies of deep sea organisms and explore the properties of light in water.	Grade 6: 3a; 4b; 5e; 7e Grade 7: 5a; 6a, b, e; 7c Grade 9-12: Physics 4a, c, e, Biology/Life Sciences 6a, Investigation and Experimentation 1d, g	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Additional Resources & Links
Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) Descriptions of current MBARI research projects involving deep-sea animals and deep-sea technology. Up-to-date information on the current location and research missions of the MBARI research vessels R/V Western Flyer and R/V Point Lobos. They post daily cruise logs on some of their longer research trips. Collection of photos and video from MBARI's work on deep-sea research and ocean engineering. Bioluminescence Web Site Great information on bioluminescence in deep sea animals including the hows and whys. Large collection of photos and some video. Deep Sea Classroom Activities from the American Museum of Natural History Explore interactives and classroom activities to investigate how plate tectonics create mid-ocean ridges and how they're related to deep-sea vents. National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Agency Ocean Explorer (NOAA) Comprehensive and easy-to-use site covering current research projects and the technology and history of ocean exploration. Large selection of photos, videos, maps and sounds relating to ocean exploration and ocean life. Education section with over 85 lesson plans. PBS Scientific Frontiers "Beneath the Sea" Online version of the PBS show "Beneath the Sea" that aired in 2002. Alan Alda joins explorer Bob Ballard for a look at the technologies that have opened up the farthest reaches of the ocean, and he visits the Monterey Bay Aquarium. You can view the video of the program online. Includes "Living in the Sea" online interactive to place animals in the right deep-sea zone. Also includes teacher resources. Professor Paul Yancey's Deep-Sea Page Good introduction to deep-sea habitats and adaptations. Lots of photos and background information on life and zones in the deep. Sea and Sky "Monsters of the Deep" Interactive Play "Monsters in the Deep" to discover the bizarre, alien creatures that live in the dark, cold deep sea.

Monterey Bay Habitats

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Decode a Fish How do different fish survive in their habitats? Students use a fish body part key to "decode" a fish and infer behavior and habitat.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b, e Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a, f Grade 5: 2a, b; 6a, g, h	K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Life Science
Disappearing Fish How do fish protect themselves in the ocean? One adaptation is camouflage. Students make a paper fish and "camouflage" it into a magazine photo habitat.	Grade K: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 2: 2c, d; 4a, d, f, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Physical Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Rate Your Plate Students order seafood from a mock menu and use a scoresheet based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program to gauge the sustainability of their selection.	Grades 9-12: Biology/Life Sciences 6a, b, c, d; 8b; Earth Sciences 5d; Investigation & Experimentation 1c, d, g, l, m	9-12: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Science and Technology, Science in Personal and Social Perspectives, History and Nature of Science
Shark Anatomy What makes a shark a shark? Students explore shark anatomy by taking part in a debate justifying the importance of specific shark adaptations and physical characteristics.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5a, b Grade 4: 3b; 4b; 6a Grade 5: 2b, c, d; 6a	K-4: Life Science 5-8: Life Science
What's in a Name? Using a prefix and suffix chart, students "translate" a shark's scientific name to discover its meaning and create drawings based on their findings.	Grade 6: 5d Grade 7: 3a, d, e; 5a; 7d	5-8: Life Science, History and Nature of Science

Open Sea

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Decode a Fish How do different fish survive in their habitats? Students use a fish body part key to "decode" a fish and infer behavior and habitat.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b, e Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a, f Grade 5: 2a, b; 6a, g, h	K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Life Science
Disappearing Fish How do fish protect themselves in the ocean? One adaptation is camouflage. Students make a paper fish and "camouflage" it into a magazine photo habitat.	Grade K: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 2: 2c, d; 4a, d, f, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Physical Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Rate Your Plate Students order seafood from a mock menu and use a scoresheet based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program to gauge the sustainability of their selection.	Grades 9-12: Biology/Life Sciences 6a, b, c, d; 8b; Earth Sciences 5d; Investigation & Experimentation 1c, d, g, l, m	9-12: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Science and Technology, Science in Personal and Social Perspectives, History and Nature of Science
Shark Anatomy What makes a shark a shark? Students explore shark anatomy by taking part in a debate justifying the importance of specific shark adaptations and physical characteristics.	Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5a, b Grade 4: 3b; 4b; 6a Grade 5: 2b, c, d; 6a	K-4: Life Science 5-8: Life Science
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Web Site Sea Searchers Handbook: Open Sea Chapter (PDF Format) Information about the open water habitat, the pelagic animals that live there and fun activities to do as a family or in the classroom. Seafood Choices to Help Turtles, Tuna and Sharks What seafood you buy makes a difference to the future of sharks, turtles and other ocean animals in trouble. Learn why your seafood choices matter. Tuna Research and Conservation The Tuna Research and Conservation Center—a collaboration between the Aquarium and Stanford University—tags giant bluefin tuna in the ocean and studies them at their facility. White Shark Research and Conservation The Aquarium's multi year white shark research program uses satellite tagging of juvenile white sharks to collect data about their life history. The Aquarium hopes that this data collection leads to better management of shark populations in the wild and changes public attitude about this maligned ocean predator. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section. External Links Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) Pelagic Predators MBARI scientists, engineers and staff collaborate on a range of marine research projects. The projects span the interdisciplinary fields of ocean science, including marine biology, ecology, chemistry and geology. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Pelagic Zone A comprehensive and educational scientific characterization of the open seas habitat in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Ocean Section NOAA's ocean section spotlights many of its different services and agencies responsible for the management of ocean areas. This section includes a link to NOAA Ocean Explorer to follow ocean explorations in near real-time. Tagging of Pacific Pelagics (TOPP) A collaboration among the world's scientists, the TOPP uses satellite tagging technologies to track 22 species of pelagic animals, including tunas, sharks and whales. TOPP hopes to provide insights on where open ocean species breed and feed.

Rocky Shore

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Dishpan Tide Pool What are the differences between tides and waves? Students find out by creating a model tide pool in a plastic dishpan. They then construct clay animals and experiment with water levels and waves.	Grade K: 1a; 3a; 4a, b, c, d, e Grade 1: 1a; 2a; 4a, b, c, d Grade 2: 1a, b; 3a; 4a, b, d, e, f, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Physical Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Shower Curtain Watershed What affects the health of a watershed? By constructing a shower curtain model, students explore how human actions influence a watershed.	Grade 3: 3b, c; 5a, d Grade 4: 3a; 5a, c; 6a, c, d Grade 5: 3c, d, e; 6a, h	K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Earth and Space Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Earth and Space Science
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Website Sea Searchers Handbook: Rocky Shore Chapter (PDF Format) Information about the rocky shore habitat, the animals that live there and fun rocky shore activities to do as a family or in the classroom. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section. External Links Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe) MARINe is a network of scientists and institutions monitoring key intertidal habitats along the California rocky shore from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. The website contains curriculum for kindergarten to high school students, along with tide pool flashcards and photos. Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) Marine Botany Descriptions and photos of current research projects involving rocky intertidal habitats, seaweeds and algae. MBARI scientists, engineers and staff collaborate on a range of marine research projects. The projects span the interdisciplinary fields of ocean science, including marine biology, ecology, chemistry and geology. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Rocky Intertidal Habitats A comprehensive and educational scientific characterization of an important habitat in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Partnership for the Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO) PISCO is a long-term, large-scale research program aimed at more fully understanding the nearshore environments on the U.S. West Coast. Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network (SIMoN) Rocky Shore Overview SIMoN is a long-term program that takes an ecosystem approach to identifying and understanding changes to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Their Rocky Shore pages include information about the rocky intertidal habitat in Monterey Bay and ongoing monitoring projects

Sandy Shore & Aviary (Temporarily Closed)

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Bird Feeding Strategies Students use salad tongs, tweezers and other tools to discover the relationship between the shape of a bird's beak, its habitat and diet.	Grade K: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2c; 4a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Feathers as Insulation How do birds stay warm? By experimenting with ice and baggies of feathers, students discover feathers are an important adaptation for birds.	Grade K: 1a; 2a, c; 4a, e Grade 1: 2a; 4b, c Grade 2: 2c; 4a, d, e, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Language in the Sand What is hidden in the sand? Students uncover paper animals buried in a sand box and use them in a series of language art challenges.	Grade K: 1a; 2a Grade 1: 2a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Life Science
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Shower Curtain Watershed What affects the health of a watershed? By constructing a shower curtain model, students explore how human actions influence a watershed.	Grade 3: 3b, c; 5a, d Grade 4: 3a; 5a, c; 6a, c, d Grade 5: 3c, d, e; 6a, h	K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Earth and Space Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Earth and Space Science
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Web Site Sea Searchers Handbook: Sandy Shore, Wetlands Chapters (PDF Format) Information about the sandy shore and coastal wetland habitats, the animals and plants that live there and fun activities to do as a family or in the classroom. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section. External Links Elkhorn Slough Maintained by the Elkhorn Slough Foundation, this web site offers history, research opportunities and educational programs about Elkhorn Slough and its resident species of coastal birds, marine mammals and native plants. eNature Owned by the National Wildlife Federation, eNature.com provides field guides to birds, mammals, fishes and plants. There is also expert-driven content on birding, wildlife resources and national parks, among other nature and wildlife topics. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Seabirds and Shorebirds A comprehensive and educational scientific characterization of the seabirds and shorebirds habitat in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Coasts Section NOAA's ocean section spotlights many of its different services and agencies responsible for the management of coastal areas. This section includes links to sanctuaries and other marine protected areas. Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network (SIMoN) Seabirds and Shorebirds Overview SIMoN is a long-term program that takes an ecosystem approach to identifying and understanding changes to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Their seabirds and shorebirds pages include information about the coastal habitat around Monterey Bay and ongoing wetlands and beaches monitoring projects.

Sea Otters

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Be a Scientist What are the components of an ecosystem? Students assume the roles of different scientists while collecting data at an outdoor field site or aquarium.	Grade 6: 1e, f; 2a, d; 4a; 5a, b, d; 7b, g, h Grade 7: 4a, c, f; 5a; 7a, c, d Grade 8: 2b; 8c, d Grades 9-12: Chemistry 2a; 4d; 5a, d; 7d; Biology 6b, d; Earth Sciences 5d, g; 6b; 8b; 9a, c; Investigation and Experimentation 1a-n	5-8: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, History and Nature of Science 9-12: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Comparing Seals and Sea Otters What makes sea otters and seals unique marine mammals? Students play a game with information cards to compare and review the characteristics of seals and otters.	Grade K: 1a; 2a, b, c; 4a, b, d, e Grade 1: 2a, c; 4b, e Grade 2: 2a; 4c, d, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Otter Puppets and Pantomime What do sea otters do all day? Students find out by reading about sea otters then creating a paper bag puppet to learn about sea otter behavior and body parts.	Grade K: 1a; 2a, c; 4b, c, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c; 4a, d Grade 2: 4d	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Life Science, Science as Inquiry
Additional Resources & Links
On Our Website Sea Otter Program The Aquarium's Sea Otter Program supports the federal recovery plan for California's southern sea otters. Take a closer look at what we're doing to help this threatened species. Sea Searchers Handbook: Marine Mammals Chapter (PDF Format) Information about sea otters and gray whales, their habitats and fun marine mammals activities to do as a family or in the classroom. You'll find more educational resources in our Classroom Resources section. External Links Alaska Science Center-Biological Science Office This organization plays a pivotal role in conducting research on Alaskan wildlife and their vast habitats. This site includes information on the status of the sea otter population in Alaska. Defenders of Wildlife This organization is dedicated to the protection of all native wild animals and plants in their natural communities. This link takes you to their information on sea otter conservation and tells you how to adopt a sea otter. Friends of the Sea Otter For over 45 years, Friends of the Sea Otter has worked to protect the sea otter and its habitat from a wide range of threats. Their site includes video clips, membership information and updates on sea otter conservation issues. Marine Mammal Center The Marine Mammal Center rescues and rehabilitates marine mammals then releases them when healthy. Their site includes research and other information about sea otters as well as profiles of marine mammals they've rehabilitated. Otter Project Otter Project works toward the rapid recovery of the California sea otter by facilitating research and communicating research results to the public and to policymakers. Otternet This site has information about all 13 species of otters, including sea otters. Games and activities for kids and lots of otter links make it fun and educational. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service This government agency protects sea otters under the federal Endangered Species Act. The site has information on threatened and endangered species as well as many aspects of wildlife conservation. Western Ecological Research Center (U.S. Geological Survey) The Center is the field research program for both the threatened California sea otter population and the state-listed Washington sea otter population. Current research focuses on population biology and behavior of California and Washington sea otters. What's Killing California Sea Otters This site, a joint project of the Sea Otter Alliance, the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Program and several other organizations, presents the latest research and news about threats to California sea otters.

Splash Zone & Penguins

Activity	California Standards	National Standards
Bird Feeding Strategies Students use salad tongs, tweezers and other tools to discover the relationship between the shape of a bird's beak, its habitat and diet.	Grade K: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2c; 4a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science
Disappearing Fish How do fish protect themselves in the ocean? One adaptation is camouflage. Students make a paper fish and "camouflage" it into a magazine photo habitat.	Grade K: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, c; 4a, b, e Grade 2: 2c, d; 4a, d, f, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science, Physical Science
Estimate and Measure How does the size of your hand compare to the size of a book or desk? Students estimate the size of various objects using non-standard measurement, such as a paper "hand" or piece of yarn.	Grade K: 1a; 4a, d Grade 2: 4a, b, c, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry
Feathers as Insulation How do birds stay warm? By experimenting with ice and baggies of feathers, students discover feathers are an important adaptation for birds.	Grade K: 1a; 2a, c; 4a, e Grade 1: 2a; 4b, c Grade 2: 2c; 4a, d, e, g	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Physical Science, Life Science
Ocean Poetry Students make observations of ocean animals and habitats in Aquarium exhibits, on web cams or in other nonfiction resources. The students then use their findings to write and illustrate poems.	Grade K: 2a, b, c; 4a, b, e Grade 1: 2a, b, c, d; 4a, b Grade 2: 2a, b, c, d; 4d Grade 3: 3a, b, c, d; 5b Grade 4: 2b; 3a, b; 6a Grade 5: 2a, b, c, d; 6a	PreK: Head Start Framework K-4: Science as Inquiry, Life Science 5-8: Science as Inquiry, Life Science

Kelp Forest

On Our Web Site

External Links

Life on the Bay

On Our Website

External Links

Mission to the Deep

Monterey Bay Habitats

Open Sea

On Our Web Site

External Links

Rocky Shore

On Our Website

External Links

Sandy Shore & Aviary (Temporarily Closed)

On Our Web Site

External Links

Sea Otters

On Our Website

External Links

Splash Zone & Penguins