See the Sea - A Look at Our Oceans

The coast of Maine is our home and integral to our lives. During the “See the Sea: A Look at Our Oceans” expedition, students will learn about this important resource and its role on many families in our community. They will start their investigations with a case study about invasive species, the European green crab, Carcinus maenas. Students will survey for this species and enter their findings on the state-wide data base, Vital Signs, which is supported through the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. We will also examine how an invasive species alters the dynamics of an ecosystem. As a final project, students will host a symposium to highlight their ideas on a value-added product for these green crabs. For a more state-wide view, students will attend Ferry Beach Ecology School for three days and two nights to examine coastal ecosystems in southern Maine. For a more global view, students in literacy class will read and discuss the book, A World Without Fish by Mark Kurlansky. In math, students will analyze catch data to discuss possible actions that can help restore fishing stocks. Finally, through interviews, students will gather stories on how fishing or industries dependent on fishing have changed through generations. These stories will be turned into a book that highlights how the ocean impacts our human communities as well.