Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation

American students, particularly those in urban areas, are underperforming in science classes when compared to their international counterparts. Many students believe that science is a rigid subject filled with lab work and endless mathematic formulas. Engaging students in interactive science experiences can break this stereotype. This project developed curriculum for the 3^rd grade SEA series program, dealing with intertidal invertebrates and their unique adaptations. The resulting curriculum meets California State Standards. Many lesson plans are included along with experiments and field trips. The curriculum was implemented by the Ocean Discovery Institute and in several schools in the University Heights area.