Shark Month

Mary Middlebrook

7-12 years old

June 2 – August 18

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If your child has taken classes with us before, use the Canvas email they log in with. Each student must have a unique email (the parent email may be reused, but not shared between students).

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$50

Description
Syllabus

CLASS DESCRIPTION

My degree is in Marine Biology (from Texas A&M University at Galveston), and marine biology was the very first homeschool class I ever taught! I have since branched out into many other sciences, but always love it when I can teach my passion- ocean life! This class is really not a good fit for current Marine Zoology students, as all of the information in this class will be covered in zoology, but in more detail.

CLASS FORMAT

No live classes–view lessons on YOUR schedule. In general, expect 1.5-2.5 hours to work through the lesson plan each week, and an additional 2-5 hours working on assignments (it really depends what assignment your child chooses to do and how they manage their time). For classes with two levels, the material is the same for both–the depth of the assignments differs. Younger students should usually be placed in Level 1. Older students, or younger students who want more of a challenge, should be placed in Level 2. Each lesson consists of a fully narrated PowerPoint presentation with images and videos to enhance the topics. Students will have access to our learning management system, Canvas, for viewing their lesson, printing worksheets, taking quizzes, viewing/submitting assignments, participating in discussions, and viewing grades/feedback.

Some of the things we will be covering includes:

1. Evolution and taxonomy:

Where do sharks fit into the grand scheme of life on earth? When did they evolve? What were some of the first forms of sharks (Megalodon!!)?

2. Anatomy:

What are the different parts of a shark? What evolutionary adaptations have led to sharks being the ocean’s apex (top) predator?

3. Reproduction:

How do sharks reproduce? Why did they evolve these reproductive strategies?

4. Species:

We’ll discuss many species you are familiar with, and some you’ve never even heard of! Each has its own unique and fascinating adaptations! Students will learn how to use a dichotomous key to identify species.

5. The Fear Factor:

Should we be afraid of sharks? What are the statistics on shark attacks? What are the most common reasons why sharks attack? What can be done to prevent an attack?

6. Conservation:

Why are the world’s shark populations in decline? What would happen to the ocean ecosystem if its apex predator disappeared? Why is it important to save sharks? What can we do to help save sharks?