After walking to a suitable location for stargazing, the students and instructors focus on the various mythologies of the stars, planets, sun and moon. This approach allows us to highlight personal and cultural relationships with the night sky in addition to the earth’s physical relationship to the universe.
This evening activity is designed to explore different ways in which living organisms cope with the many challenges of the deep-sea environment. Games, activities, slides and demonstrations will highlight marine adaptations to these various challenges. Preserved animals are included in this program.
This activity explores the general biology of the common market squid Loligo opalescens. After developing an information base of what they already know about squid, the students add to this knowledge base by engaging in a simple dissection of a squid.
The shark lab features a large touch tank filled with small sharks and their cartilaginous relatives, skates and rays. Having the opportunity to interact with these animals in a controlled environment helps to mitigate the myth of their danger. Instructors will use specimens and other visual aids to teach students the characteristic biology and different species of sharks. Presentations and hands-on activities, including a chance to touch the sharks, are used to lead students to a better understanding of these amazing marine creatures.
After completing at least the Orientation Snorkel, students will have the opportunity to experience the marine life in Cherry Cove at night. There is an additional $5 per student fee for this program. Students will:
- Observe nocturnal marine life, not commonly seen during the day
- Use an underwater flashlight
- Experience the magic of bioluminescence
- Participate in a post-dive discussion and review of marine life that was observed
Recommended for 5-day groups. Your school staff will be responsible for planning and conducting campfire. Skits, songs, stories and/or wrap-up activities work well for campfires. This is a great time for teachers and students to be creative and enjoy a less structured evening activity.
Environmental Awareness Activities
A variety of ‘critical thinking’ games, demonstrations and/or interactions designed to highlight human, individual, and cultural impacts on our natural resources. To conclude these activities we highlight what positive actions can be taken in our everyday lives. Best suited for small groups who have demonstrated excellent group interaction skills.