Teaching Units

Our themed standards-based teaching units support our school field trip programs. Pre-activities are offered to help prepare students for their aquarium investigations. Structured investigations help students and chaperones explore the aquarium during their visit. Back in the classroom, post-activities encourage students to reflect, analyze and report on their findings.

Many of the "at the aquarium" activities can be done online using the content of our website and live web cams. They are also a great way to enrich and extend a family visit.

Busy Otters

Learn about sea otters, what they do all day and how they stay warm in this standards-based teaching unit. While at the aquarium, students observe these amazing mammals and compare them to the wild otters in the bay. (An Ocean Explorers program.)

Sharks: The Real Story

This inquiry-based teaching unit emphasizes misconceptions about sharks. In pre- and post-visit classroom activities, students learn about sharks and their behaviors. At the aquarium or using our website, students observe sharks in several habitats and discover some misconceptions about sharks and their real stories. (An Ocean Explorers program.)

World of Sharks

Learn about sharks around the world and how cultures express their views of these animals. While at the aquarium or using our website, students observe sharks in their habitats and create an eco-tour to highlight sharks, cultural experiences and conservation efforts.

Mystery Fish

Learn about what makes a fish a fish and discover the components of fish habitats. In pre- and post-visit activities, students learn about fish body parts, behaviors and survival in different habitats. At the aquarium, students look for clues for physical adaptations and behaviors that help fish survive in their habitats. (An Ocean Explorers program.)