UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension
Money Wise School Enrichment

Explore the world of Marine Science in the field or through "hands-on" activities in the classroom!

Discover the very real threats sea turtles, whales, and coastal organisms face. Learn about sea life and how to set up a salt-water aquarium. Contact Keith Wilson at 861-9818. An instructor is provided.

Fish Printing: Teaches students external fish anatomy by the creation of fish prints through the use of real fish. Physiological characteristics of fish are explored. 

The World of Sea Shells: Teaches the students identification and classification skills of shells native to Southwest Florida. Methods in aquaculture will be examined. 

Coastal Invertebrates: Teaches students anatomy, physiology, and the life cycle of a variety of marine invertebrates. Live and preserved specimens will be examined. 

Whales and Dolphins: Teaches students the identification and classification of cetaceans through the use of keys. Cetacean behavior is also discussed. 

Stranded Marine Mammals: Teaches youths marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation techniques through a mock stranding. Role playing activities are explored to gain an appreciation for medical professionals who treat ailing marine mammals.    

Squid Dissection: External and internal anatomy of the squid are studied through hands-on dissection. Life cycle characteristics will be examined. 

Anadromous/
Catadromous Fish: The migration of fish to their spawning grounds and the environmental challenges they experience is examined. 

Environmental Management: Students learn to manage the environment through role playing and group discussion. Human impact on sensitive habitats are examined.

The Microscopic World: Techniques in using dissecting and compound microscopes are taught. Photo-microscopy is demonstrated to students.

Coastal Estuaries: A study of the zone where salt and fresh water mix to form a habitat rich in plant and animal life. The impact of human activities on water quality is examined (stormwater runoff, septic systems).  

Shark Anatomy and Physiology:
External and internal examination of sharks are explored. Educational resources from the Florida Museum of Natural History are used.

Groundwater Dynamics: A look at the water cycle with special emphasis on groundwater dynamics. Causes of groundwater pollution are explored.

The following staff work in the 4-H Youth Development Department:

Holland, Sheila - Program Specialist, 4-H/Youth Programs

Lechky, Barbara - Administrative Coordinator, 4-H/Youth Programs

Morris, Marcia - Extension Agent II, 4-H/Youth Programs

Wilson, Keith - Extension Agent I, 4-H/Youth Programs