Educational Resources
For many of our trips, we offer additional educational resources to accompany the subject. For ease of passing on information, we have included Amazon links...but feel free to borrow from a library, a friend, or purchase from a used book store.
*****Currently, our spotlight adventure is the "Science on the Sea" Marine Mammal Cruise at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point.
"Science on the Sea" Resource Page
Thank you for visiting! I have included curriculum, book studies, book recommendations, and even an amazing documentary recommendation for the parents, below. The resources extend beyond just marine mammal science to spark curiosity.
For those who have registered for our Marine Mammal Cruise, please see the waiver below.
On the form, the program name is : MARINE MAMMAL
IMPORTANT! Bring this completed and signed form to the boat tour:
The Ocean Institute has also provided educational pdf handouts for teachers to use with their students before the cruise, if desired. Please see below:
Recommended Curriculum
Blossom and Root Oceanography Level 5:
This curriculum is adaptable to multiple age groups! We use her curriculum in our home for two different grade levels, and it has been easily implemented and a beautiful experience. There are 24 complete lessons in oceanography with options for every type of learner through book lists, hands on activities, videos, and more. Also included in this bundle is Astronomy Level 5. Parent guides and student notebooks are included in this pdf download.
Using inspiration from beautiful and captivating children's literature selections that explore the lives and contributions of great men and women in science, you and your child will investigate nature-based S.T.E.A.M. concepts, complete nature journaling activities, prepare delicious recipes, and celebrate the magic of words.
The Blossom & Root Profiles in Science series was designed for elementary grades (ages 6 to 12) and focuses on the men and women whose contributions to science and STEM have shaped our world. These issues can be used as a stand-alone science curriculum, to enhance the science program of your choice, or as unit studies to pepper throughout your year. They also make a great compliment for families using Blossom and Root Curriculum.
To use Book Seeds: Profiles in Science By Blossom & Root, simply read the book selection as many times as you like, and complete the activities in the order and schedule that works best for your family. Most families complete the activities in a single issue of Book Seeds over a two-week period.
Mini-Units
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean's Most Fearless Scientist
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Women in Science Books
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Book for Grades K-4
Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau
Life in the Ocean: The Story of Oceanographer Sylvia Earle
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Grade Level 1-4
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Men & Women in Science
Solving the Puzzle Under the Sea: Marie Tharp Maps the Sea Floor
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Women in Science Books
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Grade K-3
Book List
Books can serve many purposes in homeschool education. When a book is presented with beautiful illustrations or striking photos, this leads to curiosity that sparks imagination. This fire that is lit within our children will lead them down a rabbit-hole of asking questions and wanting to learn more about a subject. I have chosen a variety of books that are for elementary grades and even included coffee table books to spark questioning to to provide opportunity for our children to fall in love with the ocean. Leave these book out and watch your children quietly dive into them with a willingness to learn. When they join us on the marine mammal cruise, they will want to know more about the amazing ocean, the creatures that live within it, and eventually how we can do our part to protect it all. The goal is to create a love for learning. Enjoy!
*Each book photos is a clickable link to learn more.
Let us know your favorites!
5-9 years
8-12 years
7-10 years
3-8 years
3-6 years
6-9 years
6-12 years
5-9 years
8-12 years
8-12 years
8-12 years
5-9 years
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All Ages
5-9 years
8-14 years
4-12 years
All Ages
5-8 years
For the Parents (and Teens!)
Documentary: My Octopus Teacher
This is an unbelievable film, a true story, and an absolute must watch! There are parts of this film appropriate for younger ages, but some of it can be stressful for even those that are not sensitive.
I hope you get a chance to relax after putting the kids to bed to watch this film without interruption. It is available on Netflix.