This curriculum provides a series of individual lessons covering manatee biology and ecology, as well as highlighting some of the ways that humans impact and can protect manatees. The curriculum has been written at a third grade level but can be adapted for older or younger students. Lessons are designed to take approximately one class period each (exceptions are noted in the lesson descriptions).

Lessons are listed in the suggested order; however, each one is a stand-alone lesson that could be taught independently of the others. It is suggested that teachers integrate these lessons into their regular curriculum, mostly in the fall semester, culminating with a field experience in the winter (December through February), if feasible, and a school manatee science night in the spring.

Supporting Materials

Manatees

Publications

How Red Tides Impact Manatees

The Florida Manatee: Biology and Conservation

How It Happened: Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Legacy Awards

Extreme cold and what it means in the marine world