How can one use Shark Lady when learning about Ocean Habitats in Y2 science?
Using Shark Lady by Jess Keating in Year 2 science lessons about ocean habitats can be both engaging and educational. Here are several ways to effectively incorporate this biography of Dr. Eugenie Clark into the curriculum:
1. Introduction to Marine Biology
- Storytelling: Begin with a read-aloud of Shark Lady to introduce the concept of marine biology and the importance of sharks in ocean ecosystems. Discuss Dr. Clark's journey and her passion for studying these creatures.
- Discussion Points: Engage students in discussions about their initial perceptions of sharks versus what they learn from the book, emphasizing that sharks are not just dangerous but vital to marine health.
2. Understanding Ocean Habitats
- Illustrations and Facts: Utilize the vibrant illustrations and "Shark Bites" sections that provide interesting facts about sharks and their habitats. This can help students visualize different marine environments and the role of sharks within them.
- Habitat Exploration: Create activities where students can explore various ocean habitats (coral reefs, deep sea, etc.) mentioned in the book, discussing how different species, including sharks, adapt to these environments.
3. Conservation Themes
- Marine Conservation Advocacy: Discuss Dr. Clark's advocacy for marine conservation and how it relates to protecting ocean habitats. This can lead to lessons on biodiversity and the impact of human actions on marine life.
- Class Projects: Encourage students to create posters or presentations on how they can help protect ocean habitats, inspired by Dr. Clark’s work.
4. STEM Connections
- Scientific Method: Introduce basic scientific principles by discussing how Dr. Clark conducted her research and made discoveries about sharks. This can inspire students to think like scientists.
- Hands-On Activities: Organize simple experiments or projects related to marine science, such as building a model of an ocean habitat or conducting a water quality test.
5. Vocabulary Development
- Shark Facts Vocabulary: Use the shark facts presented in the book to enhance vocabulary related to marine biology and conservation. Create word walls or vocabulary games based on terms found in Shark Lady.
6. Gender Representation in Science
- Role Models: Highlight Dr. Clark as a female scientist who broke barriers in a male-dominated field, encouraging discussions about gender equality in STEM fields and inspiring young girls.
By integrating Shark Lady into Year 2 science lessons, educators can foster a love for marine life, promote conservation awareness, and encourage scientific inquiry among young learners.
What inspired Eugenie Clark to become a shark researcher?
Eugenie Clark's fascination with sharks began at a young age when she first visited the New York Aquarium at Battery Park. As a child, she would press her face against the glass of the shark tank and imagine swimming in the ocean surrounded by these mysterious creatures.
Clark returned to the aquarium every Saturday, captivated by the marine animals. She spent her childhood reading and writing about sharks, and even joined the Queens County Aquarium Society as its youngest member. Her mother encouraged her passion by gifting her a small aquarium that made her apartment feel like the ocean.
Clark's childhood hero was the famed naturalist William Beebe, who explored the ocean. From a young age, she dreamed of following in his footsteps and becoming an ocean explorer like him. This early fascination with the ocean and its creatures, especially sharks, inspired Clark to dedicate her life to studying them.
Despite facing skepticism from male professors who didn't believe women could become great scientists, Clark pursued her passion. She earned degrees in zoology and went on to become a pioneering marine biologist known as the "Shark Lady". Her groundbreaking research and advocacy helped change public perception of sharks and promote marine conservation.
