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Sea Lab Programs
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Outreach Programs to San Diego Area Schools
Our comprehensive marine science programs provide exciting, innovative, and interactive marine education opportunities for students. We offer unique hands-on experiences that allow students to directly interact with their local marine environments. Each program is a three-part series and consists of an introductory classroom visit, field activity, and wrap-up lesson. Our three-part programs are designed to meet California State Standards and the Education and the Environment Initiative. All labs and field activities can be conducted individually.

Kindergarten – 3rd Grade | 4th & 5th Grade | Middle School | High School | À la Carte Menu

[Top]
Kindergarten - 3rd Grade

Fantastic Fish: An Introduction to Fish Adaptations

Investigate the unique adaptations that help fish survive in the ocean.
Suggested Activity: Fish Collection with Seine Net

What animal has fins, gills, and scales? A FISH! Students learn what makes a fish, a fish. Through an interactive exploration of local Pacific fish, students investigate the unique shapes, colors, and movements that help fish survive in the ocean. To compliment the fish lab, we take students to the bay and teach them to use a seine net, a long collecting net used to catch fish and other invertebrates. Once animals are caught, we place them in buckets and teach the students about these fish and their habitats. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

Science Content Standards:
Kindergarten: 2a, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4d, 4e
First Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4b
Second Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4g


Spineless Wonders: Life In A Tide Pool
Discover characteristics that help invertebrates live, survive, and thrive.
Suggested Activity: Tide Pool Exploration

Join us as we explore the world of these spineless creatures! Using puppets and hands-on activities, students investigate the characteristics that help these animals eat, move, and protect themselves from predators. Students observe and touch live and preserved animals such as lobsters, sea stars, and octopi as they learn what it is like to live without a backbone! With the supervision of our SeaCamp staff, students are brought to a local tide pool to observe these animals in their natural setting and collect them in provided buckets for a more in-depth look at them. Towards the end of the program, students gather together to identify and learn interesting facts about these organisms. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

Science Content Standards:
Kindergarten: 2a, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4d, 4e
First Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4b
Second Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4c, 4g


Ocean's Alive: A Beach Exploration
Explore your local beach and the diversity of sea animals that make it their home!
Suggested Activity: A Beach Expedition

Have you ever wondered what lives at the beach? The sandy shore is a habitat for a variety of unique organisms. Students explore the sandy shoreline as they strive to uncover these diverse creatures. Students learn about the diverse habitats where sandy shore animals live, how and what they eat, and how they survive the challenges of their beachfront home! Students focus particular attention on the dynamic ecosystem of the kelp washed onto shore and the creatures it supports.

Science Content Standards:
Kindergarten: 2a, 2c, 3a, 3c, 4a, 4b, 4d, 4e
First Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4b
Second Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4g


Super Sharks: The Shark Tale
We tell the real story about sharks and why we shouldn’t be afraid of them.
Suggested Activity: Shark Tank

Join us as we dispel the myths about sharks. Using live and preserved specimens, our staff share interesting facts about sharks and their life cycle. We discuss seven shark senses as students observe and touch sharks’ preserved skin, fins, and teeth. During our field activity, we bring students to our our very own shark tank where they have the opportunity to observe and even touch live sharks and rays! We close this lab with a discussion of what we can do to help protect sharks from extinction.

Science Content Standards:
Kindergarten: 2a, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4d, 4e
First Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4b
Second Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 4a, 4g


[Top]
4th - 5th Grade

Fish Discovery: An Introduction to Fish Adaptations

Explore how fish adaptations help them serve essential roles in their ecosystem.
Suggested Activity: Snorkel Trip and/or Seining

Do all fish have fins, scales, and gills? This lab series will answer that question. Through hands-on investigations and the use of live and preserved specimens, students learn about the characteristics of fish and the features that scientists use to classify these animals. Our lessons examine fish adaptations and how fish use these to help them survive in diverse ocean environments. We discuss the distinct and essential roles that fish have in their ecosystem. A guided fish dissection can be offered for interested groups. During this lab series, we, also, highlight interesting facts about sharks, including anatomy, behavior and the many reasons why we should not be afraid of them.

To compliment this lab experience, teachers may choose between two different field activities: seining in our local bay or snorkeling with our experienced naturalists. During the seining activity, students are taught to catch local, inshore marine life using a long collecting net called a seine. Once caught, specimens are placed in buckets and instructors teach about these animals, their habitats, and their adaptations. All animals are returned at the end of the session. For our snorkeling adventure, we explore the amazing underwater world of the rocky coast! Students are taught the basics of snorkeling as they see firsthand the biodiversity of the bay's shallow waters. Students observe fish and invertebrate adaptations that help keep this ecosystem in balance. We conclude this lab experience with a discussion of what we can do to help protect the many species of fish and sharks that inhabit our oceans.

* We offer snorkeling programs for grades 4th and higher.

Science Content Standards:
Third Grade: 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 5b, 5d,
Fourth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b
Fifth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c


Invertebrate Exploration: Hey, I've Got No Spine!
Interact with live and preserved animals as we learn about the hardships of life as a tide pool organism.
Suggested Activity: Tide Pool Exploration

Sticky tube feet, mobile homes, and sneaky disguises are all adaptations that help tide pool animals survive! Through an interactive exploration of five phyla of invertebrates, students observe and handle live and preserved animals as they learn what it is like to live without a backbone. Students investigate the unique characteristics that help these animals find food, eat, move, and protect themselves. Our lab experience takes us to a local tide pool where we observe these creatures in their constantly changing habitat. After collecting animals in buckets at the tide pool, students gather together to identify and discuss adaptations, habitats, and interesting facts about the animals collected. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

Science Content Standards:
Third Grade: 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 5b, 5d
Fourth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b
Fifth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 6a


Ocean Drifters: Our Plankton Foundation
Discover how plankton plays an important role as the foundation of marine and terrestrial food chains.
Suggested Activity: Floating Classroom

Have you ever considered what plants and animals may be found in a single drop of ocean water? Through a series of hands-on lab activities, students discover the important role these plankton play. Students use a plankton tow to collect these organisms and observe live samples under a microscope. Students learn how to identify common phytoplankton and zooplankton found in our oceans and learn how these microscopic animals serve as the foundation of our food web. To enhance students' understanding, we embark on an ocean voyage in search of sea lions, dolphins and whales where we discuss plankton's importance by observing the marine mammals that depend on these tiny animals for survival. Depending on the season, we may spot Gray, Blue, and Fin Whales, as well as sea lions and a variety of dolphin species. If time permits and groups are interested, we also may deploy our otter trawl to catch local inshore fish and invertebrates as we return to Mission Bay.

Science Content Standards:
Third Grade: 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e
Fourth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b
Fifth Grade: 2a, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h


Kelp Forest Adventure
Study marine algae, such as Giant Brown Kelp, and the diverse life forms it supports.
Suggested Activity: Kayak Adventure

Did you know that kelp can grow to be 100 feet tall? Through hands-on investigations, students study marine algae and the dynamic ecosystem of the kelp forest. Students discuss the similarities and differences between land plants and marine algae as we highlight its importance in oceanic and terrestrial ecosystems. Students, also, learn how to classify and identify different species of marine algae into three scientific categories: brown, red, and green. Through closer observation, students learn to appreciate this life form as an important component in the survival of our delicate marine habitats. To gain a closer view, we invite students to join us as we embark on a kayak adventure in our protected bay. Our experienced naturalists instruct students on the fundamentals of kayaking in our tandem, sit-on-top kayaks while also pointing out diverse habitats and wildlife during this exploration.

Science Content Standards:
Third Grade: 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e
Fourth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b
Fifth Grade: 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h


Wind, Waves, and Water: A Study of Physical Oceanography
Learn about the science of tides, waves and currents and how they affect our ocean habitats.
Suggested Activity: Boogie Boarding

Have you ever wondered what makes an ocean wave crash onto our sandy shores? Did you know we may be experiencing the ocean's energy created on the other side of the world? In this lab sequence, students have the opportunity to learn what physical factors and phenomena create the formation of waves, tides and currents. They discover how the moon and sun's rotation affects the tides, how local and global currents affect the ocean and our weather, and how tides, currents, and other energy forces create the waves that crash on our beaches. Students visit a local beach to watch these three physical processes in action and to experience their power firsthand. After suiting-up in wetsuits and reviewing safety protocol, students have the opportunity to experience waves, currents, and tides as they catch and ride waves on provided boogie boards.

Science Content Standards:
Third Grade: 4d, 4e, 5d
Fourth Grade: 5a, 4b, 4c, 6c, 6f
Fifth Grade: 3a, 3b, 3c, 4a, 4b, 4c, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g


[Top]
Middle School

Fish Investigation: Introduction to Icthyology

Study the characteristics that categorize three major classes of fish (Agnatha, Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes.
Suggested Activity: Snorkel and/or Seine

Come learn about three classes of fish: Agnatha, Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes! Through hands-on investigation, we focus our exploration on the diverse adaptations and ecological roles that allow fish and sharks to flourish in specific environments. Students learn about fish and shark anatomy, behavior, and reproduction. SEACAMP San Diego staff use live and preserved specimens to highlight different concepts. We conclude the lab with information on fish and shark conservation and research.

For our field experience, students can participate in a seining and/or snorkel adventure. During seining, students are taught to catch local, inshore marine life using a seine, a long collecting net. Once caught, specimens are placed in buckets and instructors teach about these animals and their habitat. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

For our snorkel experience, we offer two options. Our first option takes students to a local snorkel spot to explore the amazing underwater world of the rocky coast! Students are taught the basics of snorkeling as they observe the rich biodiversity of the bay's shallow waters. Students observe the fish and invertebrate adaptations that help keep this entire ecosystem in balance. For our second option, students board a charter dive vessel and head to the Coronado Islands, a group of islands 18 miles southwest of Mission Bay*. Once anchored, our experienced staff introduce students to their equipment, teach them proper snorkeling techniques and lead them on guided tours of these remote islands. In these pristine waters, students view a large variety of fish and invertebrates. Frequently, students have the opportunity to swim with friendly seals and sea lions playing in the water. If time permits and groups are interested, we also may deploy our otter trawl to catch local inshore fish and invertebrates as we return to Mission Bay.

* Our Coronado Islands trip is offered to Grades 7th and higher.

Science Content Standards
Sixth Grade: 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e
Seventh Grade: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3d, 3e, 5c, 5d
Eighth Grade: 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f, 9g


Invertebrate Classification: A Spineless Investigation
Explore and classify the defining characteristics of five major phyla of marine invertebrates.
Suggested Activity: Tide Pooling

From crashing waves, changing tides, severe weather, and hungry predators, intertidal organisms confront numerous obstacles as they try to survive. See how animals have adapted uniquely to survive and thrive in these precarious habitats! Through hands-on investigation, students observe and touch live and preserved specimens to gain a deeper understanding of these invertebrates. Students see how scientists use stinging cells, jointed legs, and spiny skin as important components in invertebrate classification. Students identify the defining characteristics of five major phyla of marine invertebrates and put their knowledge to the test as they work to classify these organisms. If desired, this lab can conclude with a squid dissection. To highlight our learning, we visit a local tide pool to gain an intimate perspective of the challenges facing these animals. After collecting tide pool specimens, students gather together to identify and discuss those collected. All animals are returned at the end of the session.


Science Content Standards
Sixth Grade: 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e
Seventh Grade: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3d, 3e, 5c, 5d
Eighth Grade: 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f, 9g



Kelp Connection: A Deeper Exploration of Marine Algae
Study marine algae, such as Giant Brown Kelp, and the diverse life forms it supports.
Suggested Activity: Kayak Adventure

Unearth the wonders and diversity of marine algae and the dynamic ecosystem of the kelp forest! After handling kelp and discussing the differences between land plants and marine algae, we hope students learn to appreciate this delicate habitat. In this lab, students determine how to classify and identify brown, red, and green marine algae by using dichotomous keys. To gain a closer view of algae in its natural habitat, we invite students to embark on a kayak adventure with us in our protected bay. Our experienced naturalists instruct students on the fundamentals of kayaking our tandem, sit-on-top kayaks while also pointing out diverse habitats, algae, and wildlife during this exploration.


Science Content Standards
Sixth Grade: 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h
Seventh Grade: 2a, 3d, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e
Eighth Grade: 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f, 9g


Oceanography Odyssey: A Transfer of Energy
Learn about the science of tides, waves and currents and how they affect our ocean habitats.
Suggested Activity: Boogie Boarding

Have you ever wondered what makes an ocean wave crash onto our sandy shores? Did you know we may be experiencing the ocean's energy created on the other side of the world? In this lab sequence, students have the opportunity to learn what physical factors and phenomena create the formation of waves, tides and currents. They discover how the moon and sun's rotation affects the tides, how local and global currents affect the ocean and our weather patterns, and how tides, currents, and other energy forces create the waves that crash onto our beaches. Students visit a local beach to watch these three oceanographic processes in action and to experience their power and formation firsthand on provided boogie boards. After suiting-up in wetsuits and reviewing safety protocol, students have the opportunity to experience waves, currents, and tides as they catch waves on boogie boards.

Science Content Standards
Sixth Grade: 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4d, 4e, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h
Seventh Grade: 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e
Eighth Grade: 1a, 1c, 1d, 2a, 2b, 2d, 2e, 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f, 9g


From Whales to Plankton: An Exploration of Food Chains
Enjoy a closer look at plankton as we study its importance in aquatic and terrestrial food chains and ecosystems.
Suggested Activity: Floating Classroom

Have you ever thought of what life might be found in a single drop of seawater? Through a series of hands-on lab activities, students discover the important roles these organisms play as the foundation of marine and terrestrial food webs. To get a closer look at the food chain in action, students board a chartered research boat for a cruise in San Diego's Mission Bay. While in the protected harbor, students deploy our otter trawl as they attempt to catch local fish and invertebrates for closer examination in the boat's touch tanks. After learning about local harbor animals, our vessel heads into the Pacific Ocean for a feel of the ocean waves and to collect a sample of plankton to view under the microscope. As the final activity, we search for some of the largest plankton-feeding animals on the planet: whales. Depending on the season, we may spot Gray, Blue, and Fin Whales, as well as sea lions and a variety of dolphin species.


Science Content Standards
Sixth Grade: 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h
Seventh Grade: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3d, 3e, 5c, 5d, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e
Eighth Grade: 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f, 9g



[Top]
High School

Introduction to Ichthyology

Learn about fish anatomy, behavior, and communities while studying three major classes of fish: Agnatha, Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes.
Suggested Activity: Snorkel and/or Seining

In this lab investigation, students learn about fish anatomy while studying three classes of fish: Agnatha, Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes. We explore their diverse adaptations, behavior, and reproductive processes by examining preserved and live specimens, as well as offer a guided fish dissection for interested groups. Students see how certain adaptations help fish and sharks flourish in specific habitats. As we examine these communities, we consider how fish and sharks establish different roles and niches and discuss reasons why this is important for creating healthy ecosystems. We conclude the lab with information on shark and fish conservation and research.

We offer several field activities to highlight the objectives of this lesson series. Our first option takes students to catch local, inshore marine life using a seine net, or a long collecting net. Once caught, specimens are placed in buckets for identification and observation. All animals are returned at the end of the session. Our second option introduces students to the amazing underwater world of our rocky coast! Students are taught the basics of snorkeling as they explore the bay's shallow waters. Students observe fish and invertebrate adaptations that help keep this ecosystem in balance.

We also offer an incredible opportunity to take students to a pristine underwater oasis. Students board a charter dive vessel and head out to the Coronado Islands, 18 miles southwest of Mission Bay. Once anchored in a protected cove, students suit up into provided wetsuits and embark on their first snorkel with our lifeguard-certified SEACAMP staff. In the pristine waters, it is common to swim with a large variety of fish, invertebrates, and friendly sea lions. After the first snorkel, the students eat their lunch and prepare for their second snorkel if desired. Afterwards, the boat cruises back to Mission Bay where, if time and interest allows, students and staff may deploy an otter trawl net to sample the animals of the bay.

Science Content Standards:

Biology/Life Sciences: 6a, 6b, 6c, 6e, 6f, 6g, 7d, 8a, 8b, 9b, 9e, 10a


Invertebrate Classification
Explore five major phyla of marine invertebrates and put your students' knowledge to the test as they classify organisms based on these similar characteristics.
Suggested Activity: Tide Pool

We introduce students to five major phyla of marine invertebrates. Through hands-on investigation, students observe and touch live and preserved specimens to gain a deeper understanding of these animals. After examining these animals' adaptations, students see how scientists use stinging cells, jointed legs, and spiny skin as important components in invertebrate classification. Students identify the defining characteristics of five major phyla of marine invertebrates and put their knowledge to work as they try to independently classify these organisms. If desired, this lab can conclude with a squid dissection. To compliment this lab, we visit a local tide pool to gain an intimate perspective on the challenges facing these intertidal animals. Transects are used to record zonation and density while collecting tide pool specimens. Students gather together to identify, discuss, and release the organisms at the end of the session.

Science Content Standards:
Biology/Life Sciences: 6a, 6b, 6c, 6e, 6f, 6g, 7d, 8a, 8b, 9b, 9d, 9e, 10a


Ecosystem Exploration
Study the complexity of the kelp forest ecosystem and the different roles organisms serve within it.
Suggested Activity: Kayak Adventure

Through hands-on investigations, students unearth the wonders and diversity of marine algae and the dynamic ecosystem of the kelp forest. After handling kelp and discussing the differences between land plants and marine algae, students determine how to classify and identify marine algae by using dichotomous keys. Through closer observation, students learn to appreciate this life form as an important component in the survival of our delicate marine habitats. To gain a closer view of algae in its natural habitat, we invite students to embark on a kayak adventure with us in our protected bay. Our experienced naturalists instruct students on the fundamentals of kayaking our tandem, sit-on-top kayaks while also pointing out diverse habitats, algae, and wildlife during this exploration.

Science Content Standards:
Biology/Life Sciences: 6a, 6b, 6c, 6e, 6f, 6g, 7d, 8a, 8b, 9b, 9e, 10a



Physical Oceanography: A Study of Energy and Motion
Learn how the interaction and flow of energy and matter create the ocean's tides, waves and currents.
Suggested Activity: Boogie Boarding

Have you ever wondered what makes an ocean wave crash onto our sandy shores? Did you know we may be experiencing the ocean's energy created on the other side of the world? In this lab sequence, students have the opportunity to learn what physical factors and phenomena create the formation of waves, tides and currents. They discover how the moon and sun's rotation affects the tides, how local and global currents affect the ocean and our weather patterns, and how tides, currents, and other energy forces create the waves that crash onto our beaches. Students visit a local beach to watch these three oceanographic processes in action and to experience their power and formation firsthand on provided boogie boards. After suiting-up in wetsuits and reviewing safety protocol, students have the opportunity to experience waves, currents, and tides as they catch and ride the surf on boogie boards.

Science Content Standards:
Earth Sciences: 5a, 5b, 5d, 5f, 5g


Marine Ecology: From Plankton to Whales
Observe the biodiversity and stability of different ocean ecosystems and why alterations in this stability gravely affect its health and balance.
Suggested Activity: Floating Classroom

The ocean is teeming with incredibly diverse and abundant life. From plankton to whales, students explore the plethora of animals found within the ocean, study their relationships, and learn about their importance as the foundation for healthy ecosystems. Students identify marine zooplankton and phytoplankton through an interactive presentation on plankton ecology, which includes microscope instruction and student exploration. For the field experience, students board a charter research boat for a cruise in San Diego's Mission Bay. After an orientation, the vessel heads out of the bay into the Pacific Ocean for a feel of the ocean waves, a sampling of some Giant Kelp and a possible sighting of whales, dolphins and sea lions. Once back in the bay, the trawl net is set and hauled back in by the staff and students. Species collected are displayed and discussed by the SEACAMP San Diego staff.

Science Content Standards:
Biology and Life Science: 6a, 6b, 6c, 6e, 6f, 6g, 7d, 8a, 8b, 9b, 9e, 10a
Investigation and Experimentation: 1a, 1i, 1l, 1m


Ocean Sustainability: The Health of Our Oceans
Discuss the current events that are surrounding our oceans and its health.
Suggested Activity: Please choose from any of the above field activities

Through hands-on activities, relevant media, and in-depth discussions, students study and analyze the human impacts on ocean habitats: variations in climate, introduction of non-native species, pollution, overfishing, recreation. Students learn about the current events surrounding local and global marine environments and discuss the ways in which we can have a positive impact on the future of our ocean.

Science Content Standards:
Investigation and Experimentation: 1m


Please Call Our Office for Pricing on the Above Programs


À la Carte Program Information and Pricing

Labs | Field Activities | Prices | Program Request Form

LABS [Top]

FISH ADAPTATIONS LAB
In this hands-on lab, students will study fish (including sharks, skates and rays) anatomy and behavior. Observations and discussion will occur regarding adaptations that allow fish to flourish in specific environments. Students will explore the differences between the three different classes of fish: Agnatha, Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes. In the second half of the lab, students examine preserved specimens and may participate in a fish dissection. Particular emphasis can be placed on fish likely to be seen while snorkeling during the SEACAMP visit.

INVERTEBRATE LAB
In this lab students will be introduced to the major phyla of local marine invertebrates. Students will explore these animals' characteristics and adaptations through the use of a variety of live and preserved specimens. The lab will conclude with an in depth study of the external and internal anatomy of a squid, through dissection. Particular emphasis can be placed on invertebrates likely to be seen while during the SEACAMP visit.

MARINE BIOLOGY LAB
This lab is designed to give students a wide overview of all of the types of life in the ocean. Topics that may be covered include Plankton, Algae, Invertebrates, Fish and Marine Birds, Reptiles and Mammals. Live specimens, artifacts and photographs will be used as teaching tools. A major goal of the lab is to stress the diversity of life in the ocean. Particular emphasis can be placed on organisms likely to be seen during the SEACAMP visit.

SHARK ECOLOGY LAB
Confronting some of the myths about sharks is the major focus of this lab. Students will explore the variety of fish in the Class Chondrichthyes with preserved specimens. Next the instructors will lead an in-depth discussion on the facts about sharks including their senses, reproduction and shark attacks. SEACAMP San Diego staff may employ live specimens from the on-site shark tank for observations and preserved specimens to explain shark anatomy. We will conclude the lab with information on shark conservation and research. A shark dissection may be done when specimens are available.


FIELD ACTIVITIES [Top]

TIDEPOOL EXPLORATION AT SEA RIDGE Grades 1 - College
Students join the SEACAMP San Diego staff at the Tidepools at Sea Ridge Drive in the Bird Rock area. Here the students learn the basics of tides and the stresses of intertidal life. Students are then allowed to explore the intertidal zone and collect specimens in buckets. At the end of their exploration students are brought together to identify and discuss the specimens collected. An emphasis is placed on adaptations for intertidal living and conservation. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

KAYAKING AND SEINING IN MISSION BAY Grades 4 - College
This activity takes place at SEACAMP San Diego's Fiesta Island facility. Students are instructed on the fundamentals of kayaking, and then embark on a kayak excursion on SEACAMP's tandem, sit-on-top kayaks. From the kayaks, students can observe a wide variety of bay animals. Additionally, students are taught to work a long collecting net called a seine, and from the beach, attempt to catch some local, inshore marine life. Once caught, specimens are placed in buckets and instructors teach about them and their habitat. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

SNORKELING AND SEINING AT MISSION POINT Grades 4 - College
Students meet the SEACAMP San Diego staff at the public park at Mission Point. Here students are taught the basics of snorkeling, fitted for gear and then taught to snorkel in the shallow water, near the protected beach. Once the students are comfortable, they snorkel a short distance across the cove to a rocky reef area where they can observe fish and invertebrates and algae. On the beach students are taught to work a long collecting net called a seine and attempt to catch some local, inshore marine life. Once caught, specimens are placed in buckets and instructors teach about them and their habitat. All animals are returned at the end of the session.

PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY/BOOGIE BOARDING AT LA JOLLA SHORES Grades 4 - College
Students meet the SEACAMP San Diego staff at Kellogg Park at La Jolla Shores. Here they are taught the basics of Boogie Boarding and the science of tides, waves and currents. After students suit up in the provided wetsuits, they get in the water to do activities that help demonstrate these oceanographic processes. Afterwards, students are allowed to experience the waves of La Jolla while boogie boarding under the supervision of the SEACAMP San Diego staff. For larger groups, those that are not boogie boarding are taken on a beach walk along the shore and examine a variety of plants and animals, and led in instructive games.

PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY/BOOGIE BOARDING AND SNORKELING AT LA JOLLA SHORES Grades 7 - College (conditions dependant)
Students meet the SEACAMP San Diego staff at Kellog Park at La Jolla Shores. Here they are taught the basics of Boogie Boarding and Snorkeling. Prior to Boogie Boarding, instructors explain the science of tides, waves and currents. Students will then get in the water to participate in activities to help demonstrate these oceanographic processes. Afterwards, students are allowed to experience the waves of La Jolla while boogie boarding under the supervision of the SEACAMP San Diego staff. Students are briefed on the basics of snorkeling, fitted for gear and then they are off to a clear site for a snorkel. While snorkeling, staff provides instruction in and identification of local marine life, including marine mammals, fish, sharks and kelp.

SEACAMP SAN DIEGO'S FLOATING MARINE SCIENCE CLASSROOM Grades 3 - College
Students board a charter research boat for a cruise in San Diego's Mission Bay. After an orientation the vessel heads out of the bay into the Pacific Ocean for a feel of the ocean waves, a sampling of some Giant Kelp and possibly a sighting of dolphins and sea lions. Seasonally we may also cruise around in search of California Gray Whales. On the way back into the bay, staff discuss the Giant Kelp and the ecology of the kelp forest. Once back in the bay, the trawl net is deployed and retrieved by the staff, with the help of the students. Each species of animals collected are displayed and discussed by the SEACAMP San Diego staff. Next, the students are broken up into smaller groups and rotate around the boat to several stations that include plankton collection, plankton evaluation, physical oceanography, mud sampling and examination of trawl animals. On the way back to the dock, the trawl animals are released and some birds and marine mammals of the bay may be observed.

SNORKELING AT THE CORONADO ISLANDS GRADES 7 - College (conditions dependant)
Students board a charter dive vessel and after a safety orientation the boat heads out to the Coronado Islands which lie about 25 miles southwest of Mission Bay. Once anchored at a protected cove the students suit up in the provided gear and are taken on their first snorkel. SEACAMP San Diego staff serve as lifeguards, guides and naturalists while snorkeling with the students. In the usually clear waters a large variety of fish and invertebrates can be observed and examined. After the first snorkel, the students eat their lunch while the boat moves to a second snorkel site. It is common for snorkelers at the Coronados to observe seals and sea lions in the water with them. After snorkeling, the boat cruises back to Mission Bay where, if time allows, students and staff may deploy a trawl net to sample the animals of the bay.


2009 - 2010 Options & Prices [Top]
All prices include instruction, supervision and necessary gear.
All field activities are subject to weather and water conditions.

Lab only at SEACAMP San Diego's facility. Grades 3 - College.
Up to 35 participants. $300 for up to 20 students, $15 per student for 21 - 35 students. Approx. a 2 hour program (depending upon group age/grade).

Lab at SEACAMP San Diego's facility followed by Tidepool Exploration at Searidge. Grades 1 - College.
Up to 35 participants. $400 for up to 20 students, $20 per student for 21 - 35 students. 5 hour program.

Lab followed by Kayaking and Seining in Mission Bay, at SEACAMP San Diego's facility. Grades 5 - College.
Up to 35 participants. $500 for up to 20 students, $25 per student for 21 - 35 students. 4 hour program.

Lab at SEACAMP San Diego's facility followed by Snorkeling and Seining at Mission Point. Grades 5 - College.
Up to 35 participants. $600 for up to 20 students, $30 per student for 21 - 35 students. 5 hour program.

Lab at SEACAMP San Diego's facility followed by Physical Oceanography with Boogie Boarding or Snorkeling at La Jolla Shores. Grades 4 - College.
Conditions dependant. Up to 35 participants. $600 for up to 20 students, $30 per student for 20 - 35 students. 5 hour program.

For any lab activity, groups greater than 35 may do two different labs concurrently.
Please call the office, (800) SEACAMP, to discuss your group's trip.


Tidepool Exploration at Searidge. Grades 1 - College.
Up to 60 participants. $300 for up to 20 students, $15 per student for 21 - 60 students. 2 hour program.

Kayaking and Seining in Mission Bay, at SEACAMP San Diego's facility. Grades 5 - College.
Up to 35 participants. $400 for up to 20 students, $20 per student for 21 - 40 students. 2 hour program.

Snorkeling and Seining at Mission Point. Grades 5 - College
Up to 50 participants. $600 for up to 20 students, $30 per student for 21 - 50 students. 3 hour program.

Physical Oceanography with Boogie Boarding or Snorkeling at La Jolla Shores. Grades 4 - College.
Conditions dependant. Up to 45 participants. $600 for up to 20 students, $30 per student for 21 - 45 students. 3 hour program.

SEACAMP San Diego's Floating Marine Science Classroom. Grades 3 - College*.
Up to 35 participants. $900 for up to 20 students, $45 per student for 21 - 35 students. 3 hour program.

Snorkeling at the Coronado Islands. Grades 7 - College*.
Up to 35 participants. $1900 for up to 20 students, $95 per student for 21 - 35 students. 9 hour program.

*Prices may vary due to boat and fuel surcharges.
Please Call the Office for Availabilty
SEACAMP Outreach Coordinator
 
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