Science Department

Marine Biology

Course Description:

Marine Biology I: This course concentrates on the marine life typical of New England waters. Classes study a variety of local organisms including sponges, jellyfish clams, crabs, and fish. Both live and preserved specimens are studied as students learn about the structure and function of life in the oceans. Additional topics include the study of ocean water, currents, waves, pollution, ocean mining, and man's influence on the marine environment. Books used: Marine Science by Amsco School Publications (1998) and Marine Biology- Environment, Diversity, and Ecology by Addison Wesley (1986)

Course Goals

Students will be able to identify the major topographical features of the ocean floor.
Students will be able to explain plate tetonics based upon topographic features and geologic evidence.
Students will be able to identify the major Eras and Periods of geologic time.
Students will be able to describe the evolutionary pattern of marine life.
Students will be able to recognize the major structural characteristics of invertabrates included in: Phylum Porifera, Phylum Cnidaria, Phylum Platyhelminthes, Phylum Mollusca, Phylum Arthropoda, Phylum Echinodermata.
Students will be able to identify the major body systems of vertebrates(Phylum Chordata).
Students will be able to describe the characteristics of marine reptiles.
Students will be able to describe the characteristics of marine birds.
Students will be able to describe of marine mammals.
Students will be able to outline a typical marine ecosystem.

Grading Policy:

Special Assignments:

MCAS Standards:

Teacher	Grade and Period	Assignment