The lesson plan "Pacific Salmon" from National Geographic," appropriate for grades K-2, focuses on various species of Pacific salmon and their life in both saltwater and freshwater environments. "Baleen Whales vs. Toothed Whales," a lesson developed by the Aquarium of the Pacific, is appropriate for second-grade students. Oceanography is an interdisciplinary subject, and the lesson plan "Oceanographic Specialties" is appropriate for grades 9-12. Students will learn about oceanography sub-disciplines; conduct research; gain, analyze and question geographic information; and develop skills to find answers to their questions.
In an "Introduction of Oceans and Sea Life," elementary students will learn about ocean waves, tides, the depth of the ocean, the Seven Seas, causes of the Gulf Stream, ocean plant life, and the ocean floor. Student also will gain knowledge about ocean habitats, sea life and the differences among waves, tides and currents. "The Ocean Floor" lesson sheds light on oceans' geological features, including beaches, ocean ridges, trenches and the Continental Shelf.
"Human Disturbance of Marine Environments" instructs students in grades 3-8 on the effects that humans' actions have on fragile ocean ecosystems. Students will learn how humans' harmful practices threaten ocean life, and learn possible solutions to the problems. Students will gain insight about the effects that oil spills, pollution, commercial fishing practices and other disturbances have on delicate marine ecosystems.
"Discovery of Sound in the Sea," for K-12 students, introduces children to the uses that sea creatures and people have for sound in the ocean, including navigation, communication and finding food. In "Echoes: What Animals Can Teach Scientists," K-2 students will learn how echoes work, how echoes are used in sea exploration and how scientists use sonar to investigate ocean depths.