Study marine biodiversity from the water’s surface down to the bottom for a first-hand understanding of Long Island Sound’s interdependent marine life. Students utilize such sampling techniques as a plankton tow, biodredge and trawl net to bring up varieties of fish, crabs and mollusks – and maybe even squid, sea stars, shrimp and sharks. A videomicroscope (tied to a giant flat-screen monitor) and a touch tank right on the boat enhance observations.
This program provides a fieldwork experience designed to link directly to the AP Environmental Science curriculum. Students collect water samples in the inner and outer harbor. They test for dissolved oxygen, pH, carbon dioxide and other variables, compare the findings in the two locations and discuss the results. For many students, the highlight is getting muddy as they examine a biodredge sample for crabs, mollusks, sponges and other organisms to determine species richness. Disembark at the end of the program with data you have collected and ideas for analysis back in your classroom.
Standards: N.G.S.S. – E.S.S3-4, L.S2-2, L.S2-7
This unique program focuses on the physical aspects of the world’s oceans. Students collect and examine plankton samples to spark consideration of how phytoplankton and photosynthesis relate to Earth’s atmosphere. They take weather readings and sample water at different depths, gathering their own data on temperature, salinity and turbidity to contribute to a discussion of the role of the oceans as indicators of global climate change. And they learn how seemingly slight changes in ocean temperatures and currents drive changes in weather in marine and terrestrial environments worldwide. Disembark at the end of the program with data you have collected and ideas for analysis back in your classroom.
Standards: N.G.S.S – P.S4-1, E.S.S2-5, L.S2-5
Available on select dates in February and March!
Study winter biodiversity, including plankton and migrating waterfowl, as you seek out some of the seals that winter in Long Island Sound. Learn about the seals and get a broad picture of how the Sound’s animal population changes in the winter, which animals swim or fly south, which burrow into the mud and which have adapted to the cold. Students will use scientific tools and instruments to measure weather and water chemistry. Binoculars provided. Dress very warmly!
NGSS Standards:
- 4: L.S1-1, E.S.S2-1
- 5: L.S2-1, E.S.S2-1
- 6-8: L.S2-2, L.S2-3, L.S2-4
- 9-12: L.S2-8, L.S4-4