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Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems: Leader's Activity Guide—Introduction

Karen Blyler andJoy C. Jordan
Contacts: Clair Norden

For the full version of this document, view the PDF here.

To access other sections and lessons of the Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems: Leader's Activity Guide, view the EDIS topic page here.

Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Introduction

The new Florida 4-H Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems: Leader's Activity Guide helps leaders address the 4-H Science Initiative and is part of the Environmental Sciences Framework, OUR NATURAL WORLD. This framework includes the basic premise that aquatic/marine environments are important in children's lives, particularly to those children in Florida. The 4-H Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems curriculum provides an opportunity for young people to practice a variety of life skills while learning marine science concepts. The curriculum also utilizes science inquiry as a way for young people to gain a deeper curiosity about the natural world.

 

Figure 6. This curriculum gives young people the chance to learn marine science concepts
Figure 6.  This curriculum gives young people the chance to learn marine science concepts
Credit: Photos in this publication taken by 4-H members

 

The Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems: Leader's Activity Guide is designed to help 9–14 year old children understand the role freshwater and marine environments play in our lives and how we as individuals might become better stewards of these environments. Additional curriculum packages are being designed for youth in other age ranges for sequential advancement in the area of aquatic, marine, and environmental sciences. The following page identifies those subject areas included in 4-H's Environmental Science curricula and form the core of "Our Natural World."

To the informed Florida citizen, it is not surprising that educational activities related to the aquatic and marine studies commands a priority within the total Florida 4-H education curriculum. An investment in young people's knowledge, understanding and attitudes about these topics will certainly produce a citizen that is better prepared for the decisions of tomorrow.

Age or Grade Levels

This project was developed for youth ages 9–14. Both group and individual activities encourage participation and action in all aspects of this program. Because of the large age range, teachers and volunteers are encouraged to select learning activities that are most suitable to their youth, as some activities are more advanced than others. Youths' individual experiences and grade level should be considered when selecting activities. The overall intent is to facilitate learning and to spark creativity in both teachers and youth.

Learn More

To read the rest of this document, view the PDF here.

To access other sections and lessons of the Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems: Leader's Activity Guide, view the EDIS topic page here.