Bridge Cluster
GREEN Bridge Cluster
The Green Class is studying the environment from multiple points of view. In our study of the ocean, students took the perspective of a marine biologist, investigating the vital connections between plants, animals, and the physical environment. Students visited the Aquarium of the Pacific, where they observed and interacted with ocean animals to learn about their characteristics and adaptations. In class, students learned about various ocean food chains to understand the interdependence between organisms. Upon discussing the ecological role of coral, a debate arose about whether coral was a plant (producer) or animal (consumer). Students were fascinated to learn coral is, in fact, an animal that primarily consumes algae living inside of it! After learning about the vast range of biodiversity that coral supports, students took on the perspective of an environmentalist. Through books and videos, students researched the endangerment of coral and the factors contributing to it, including pollution and global warming. Additionally, they took on the perspective of an activist, learning how they could impact change in environmental protection. Students joined Greta Thunberg, sixteen-yearold Swedish environmental activist, in the Global Climate Strike on September 21st. The Green Class went to the Santa Monica Pier to participate in the strike and share their protest sign which included individual student pledges for protecting the environment. Finally, students adopted the lens of a cartographer. Students made maps that tracked the route and places Greta Thunberg visited for her North American Climate Strike.
BLUE
CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS
Bridge Cluster
6
The theme of Perspectives serves as the primary focal point for our Science unit this year as we view the ocean from the lens of organisms living within its various layers. Students explored the points of view of marine animals and plants. This study has given each student a better understanding of the survival needs of the living organisms and how they each thrive in the various layers: the sunlight, twilight, midnight, abyss, and trench zones. Students are learning to make observations and give reasons why marine plants and animals have specific body parts and adaptations that help them survive in a particular ocean zone. We integrated art into aquatic studies to help students visualize relevant data from research. Students studied the characteristics of unique animals and their homes in the ocean. Comparing and contrasting the specific features of different sea animals inspired students to generate different drawings. Recent field trips to the Roundhouse Aquarium and Cabrillo Aquarium provided first-hand visual and kinesthetic experiences with ocean life. Students gained a firm understanding of ocean ecology by exploring perspectives of how and why specific marine animals live in the various habitats of the ocean.