The history of marine science is a content-dense unit, which means that it might not be the most exciting topic for students to learn. However, it is important for students to understand the history of marine science. So, how do we make it interesting? Here are some fun and engaging marine science lessons to help you out.

History of Marine Science Lesson Ideas

#1 Guided Notes

Before you can jump into the hands-on practice, students need to have foundational knowledge. I created these History of Marine Science Guided Notes to give students the introduction they need, including key scientists and contributors to know and developments in marine science technology. Throughout the guided notes, students learn about the Polynesians, Chinese, Egyptians, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, Charles Darwin, and more.

#2 Interactive Timeline

Another way to get students engaged in your marine science lessons is to have them create an interactive timeline. They could create a timeline of marine scientist contributions, technology advancements, or both. Add in collaboration by having each student research part of the timeline and then have them piece the information together. Students can make posters and hang the finished marine science timelines on a blank classroom wall or in the hallway! 

#3 Famous Marine Scientists

Increase the engagement with a bit of drama and have your students take on the persona of a famous marine scientist. Have them tell the scientist’s story and explain how their contributions impacted marine science. This type of marine science lesson makes the concept more real and a whole lot more fun. Bonus points if you can convince students to dress up or bring props.

#4 Virtual Field Trips

Scheduling real-life field trips is hard these days, so find ways to schedule virtual meetings with marine scientists, take virtual tours of historic sites, or create a gallery walk of videos or images that students can explore.

#5 Advertisement Project

This Marine Science Advertisement Project activity is great for studying technological advancements in marine science. Students pick a piece of technology to advertise, such as Compass, Magnetometer, Sextant, Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), SCUBA, CTD, or Sonar. Then, they create an advertisement for that piece of technology, like they are a salesperson for the product. They will need to research the technology so the ads are informative and persuasive.

#6 Stick Chart Activity

This Nautical Stick Chart activity immerses students in the history of marine science. Students learn about how ancient Polynesians used stick charts to navigate to small islands and then create their own version of a stick chart using sticks, sea shells, clay, string, and more.

Marine science lessons don’t have to be a drag just because they are information-heavy! Use these ideas to make your marine science lessons more fun and engaging. If you are looking for some picture books to make your marine science lessons even more engaging, check out this post.