Marine Biology Multimedia Experience 2009

 

Greetings

 

The purpose of our trip is to bring life and excitement to science and Multimedia while providing a memory that will last a life time.

 

Students will find connections between the theories they have studied in a variety of courses  as they explore a variety of coastal and marine ecosystems.

We will use digital technology to record and communicate those things and moments that are unique to this part of the world.

Communications technology students will enjoy wildlife and architectural photography in this unique natural and cultural landscape.

 

Everglades, three ocean coastlines, subtropical Keys, mangrove swamps and the world’s second largest barrier coral reef as well as the exciting cities of Lauderdale- by- the -Sea and Key West are all on our itinerary.

 

The variety of locations (4 major stops) that we visit really gives students a big picture of the interrelationships between each of these living systems and their tenuous relationship with humans.

 

In the past we have observed endangered species such as the American crocodile, manatee, wood stork, and are almost guaranteed to observe many other species such as alligators, dolphins, rays, and sea turtles.

 

Sailing out of Key West on the Reef Chief a wooden Schooner has grown more interesting each year as government protection of the Reef over the last 10years has resulted in a major repopulation of tropical fish!

 

If this style of educational experience appeals to you please read on.

 

I hope you come along with us for the educational experience and the memories.

 

Dates > sometime spring 2009

FAQ,s

 

Q - Has this trip ever run before?

A – Yes this is the 12th year since 1990, supervising/ teaching staff have a total of 25 years experience on this trip.
This year we have police officer Bruce Bolitho for his 3rd trip.
We also have an excellent safety/incident record.

 

Q – What is the cost, what is included?

A - $1850 CAN, this cost includes the following

> MEDICAL INSURANCE

> GST, PST taxes

> Any Airport Taxes, fuel surtaxes, etc.

> Transportation (air, land, ocean)
> accommodation (3 locations)
> cost of all activities stated in itinerary
> cost of all equipment required, log books, study material etc
> snorkel lessons and snorkel gear are included
> this price does not include the cost of food as we are on the road allot and students usually opt to eat in a variety of venues! 
In other words there are no other costs to the student except food.
No special clothes or footwear are required (t-shirts, shorts, running shoes, bathing suit, hat, water resistant watch)

 

Q – Is there an academic credit associated with the trip?
A – Yes the gr12 bio can have the successful completion of the trip assigned as their ISP in a variety of senior scince3 courses or to improve the grade on a summative evaluation ........ .....speak to your senior science  teacher.
ComTech students will use digital files aquired on the trip to generate independent projects in videography, photography and animation.


We will seek opportunities to involve students in the Abel Project where possibilities exist.

Students will produce and post to the internet at least 1 video of an interesting event for each day while enroute!

This year we will undertake the process of marine photography and videography using underwater technology!!


First semester students will write a short essay explaining the Everglades and Reef System interdependence or create a Flash animation from research on a topic such as endangered species of the Everglades

Q – What academic work will occur prior to and on the trip?

A – Students will receive a spiral bound compilation (200 pages+) of related marine bio/geophysical/sociological text relevant to our expedition before the March Break for reading and studying. All students will write a multiple choice exam at the hotel on the first day after unpacking. All students will attend all lectures delivered during the trip and write any short quizzes given.
All students must receive a 70% or study for a retake before continuing with other activities that day. ( nobody has been held back so far!!!!)

Also all students will write a daily journal for submission before leaving the air terminal upon return to Toronto.
All students will be required to complete these tasks other teachers may give credit for this work if they so deem it of value in their courses.
In short all students are in for the educational aspect of the trip regardless of what senior science course they have or are taking. Students who are not interested in studying marine biology and digital photography while away are asked to not enroll in this trip.

 

Q - Is there a Swim test?

A - All students will attend a swim test (date to be announced) and will swim 6 lengths of a public pool (usually Newmarket Rec. Centre).  

 

Failure to complete the swim test will not disqualify a student from participating in the trip however for their own safety they will have certain restrictions placed on them when around water and a lifejacket will be provided for them when on or around water. There is plenty of time to improve your swimming!
We usually use this event  to get together as group and get to know each other as well as discuss aspects of marine environment and the trip.

 

 

 

Q – What is the payment schedule?
A-
An initial deposit of $800 plus a set of 2 post dated cheques  and a Photocopy of your passport

Dated as follows:
January    =
$ 600
February  =
$ 450

All cheques are payable to King City Secondary School
MARLIN TRAVEL will be paid by K.C.S.S as per new YRDSB regulations
Marlin Travel make all travel arrangements as one of 5 agents approved by the YRDSB

 

Q – Do I need a passport to travel on this trip?

A – Yes ……  I am getting my passport renewed as it is the best travel credential.
If you have traveled since  911 you will appreciate that a Canadian passport is an essential
requirement if traveling by air to the USA.
If you have a criminal record you will not be allowed to cross the US border so don’t apply for this trip!!!!    (It has happened!)


 

Thank you for considering this science experience.
 
Michael S. Harris, biology/communications teacher K.C.S.S.
                    harrismailbox@gmail.com |    www.michaelsharris.com  (see pix + trip updates)
                            905 722 4324 - home | 416 402 8150 - cell