This exciting biological sciences course studies life in the sea. The first semester will examine the classification, anatomy, and physiology of major marine organisms, specifically covering simple invertebrates like crabs and mollusks as well as more complex organisms like sea turtles and marine mammals. The second semester will be dedicated to the exploration of marine ecology with particular attention to the marine habitats that support the organisms introduced in the first semester. We will also explore marine plants, sea weeds, and other environmental components — including ocean floor, ocean water chemistry and currents — designed to support the ecological balance in the sea.
Note: Lab exercises reinforce the concepts covered in the class and provide a hands-on learning experience with the course content. However, this course does not have sufficient lab work to fulfill the requirements of a high school “lab science”.