Oceans of Learning

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the ocean covers 71 percent of the Earth's surface and contains 97 percent of the planet's water, yet more than 95 percent of the underwater world remains unexplored. Just think of what there is to discover and how exciting it will be. One of every six jobs in the United States is marine-related, so it is definitely an area to think about for a future career.

Providing an avenue for bright kids to study the ocean may ignite their interest in exploration. Who knows where it might eventually lead?

The excellent websites listed below contain not only written information, but lesson plans, images, video, audio, and other resources.

• Ocean Portal is sponsored by The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Some of the areas covered on this website include the latest news on ocean-related topics; numerous stories, resources, and lesson plans related to ocean life and ecosystems; and information about the latest research.
• National Geographic has an extensive section on the ocean. There are special sections for both kids and for educators.
• NOAA has ocean material for teachers and kids of all ages.
• NASA Oceanography has information and activities for students from kindergarten through graduate school, plus teacher materials.
• Once your student’s interest in the study of the ocean has been invigorated, you may want to consider giving him a hands-on experience through a study program. To explore the possibilities, go to Cogito’s Summer Programs and choose the subject “Marine.” You will be amazed at the opportunities that are available, including camps and living and working on research vessels.