URI's Office of Marine Programs will be conducting several student oceanography programs and teacher professional development workshops during the week of April 14-18, 2008. There's something for everyone!

Student Activities:

Explore the World of Narragansett Bay
On Tuesday, April 15, students in grades one, two and three are encouraged to come explore the world of Narragansett Bay with us between 8:45 am to 12:00 pm. Prepare to roll up your sleeves and get your hands wet as we examine some of the amazing creatures that inhabit our Bay. Here's your chance to get up close to some really fascinating marine animals. The day will also include a scavenger hunt along the shore and other hands-on activities. Cost is $35/student. Bring your own snack. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

Mysterious Marine Animals
On Wednesday, April 16, students in grades four, five and six will have their chance to explore the world of sharks. Is it a fish or not? Come find out and help us unravel some of the mysteries of these misunderstood creatures. Beachcombing, a visit to the Graduate School of Oceanography's research aquarium, and other fun-filled activities are planned. The program will run between 8:45 am and 12:30 pm. Cost is $35/student. Bring your own snack. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

Marine Mammals of Rhode Island
On Thursday, April 17, middle school students in grades seven and eight are invited to join us as we investigate the world of whales. Learn about these majestic creatures. In this program we'll learn about the different types of whales found off the coast of RI. It's a perfect chance to go on a whale watch without going out to sea. Other fun-filled and hands-on activities include beachcombing and a chance to design your own scientific experiment. The program will run between 8:45 am and 12:30 pm. Cost is $35/student. Bring your own snack. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

So, You Want To Be An Oceanographer
On Thursday, April 17, a workshop will be offered for high school students entitled, "So, You Want To Be An Oceanographer." This program is designed for students who are considering a career in the fascinating world of Oceanography. We'll examine the different oceanographic disciplines, discuss some of the academic options available, and present a straight-forward talk on how to pursue a career in the marine sciences. Guest speakers, informal presentations, and a tour of the Graduate School of Oceanography are planned. The program will run between 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm. Cost is $35/student. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

Educator Workshops:

Bringing Narragansett Bay Into Your Classroom
On Tuesday, April 15, a professional development workshop will be held for elementary school teachers entitled, "Bringing Narragansett Bay Into Your Classroom." The workshop will focus on Narragansett Bay and its role as the largest estuary in Rhode Island. The hands-on activities and lesson plans presented in this workshop will enable teachers to conduct inquiry-based programs in their own classrooms. An examination of available resources will also take place. Here's your chance to bring a little bit of the Bay back your class. The program will run between 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm. Cost is $50/participant. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

Marine Mammalogy 101
On Wednesday, April 16, a professional development workshop will be held for middle school teachers entitled, "Marine Mammalogy 101." This workshop will focus on the natural history and conservation of the marine mammals that are seen off the coast of Rhode Island. The hands-on activities and lesson plans presented in this workshop are designed for an easy transfer of content back into the classroom. An examination of available resources will also take place. We'll have a whale of a time! The program will run between 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm. Cost is $50/participant. Pre-registration is required, call 401-874-6211 to register.

All programs require registration. For more information, or to register, please call 401-874-6211.