Topics
include underwater sound, ocean exploration, hurricane preparedness
Todd McLeish,
URI
NARRAGANSETT, R.I. – January 12, 2015 – The Inner Space Center at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography will host a series of oceanographic education activities for youth and their families during school vacation week, Feb. 16-20.
The programs offered are the following:
Exploring Underwater Sound, Monday, Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon, for child/adult pairs (children ages 10 and up). Participants will investigate the science of sound waves, underwater acoustic technologies, and the potential impacts of underwater sound on marine life. They will work in pairs to build and test a hydrophone that can then be brought home for continued use and exploration.
Preparing for Hurricanes: An Introduction to Hurricanes and Hurricane Preparedness, Monday, Feb. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m., for child/adult pairs (ages 10 and up). 2015 marks the 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina devastating New Orleans, LA, and Gulf coast Mississippi. Hands-on activities will introduce participants to the science of hurricanes, how to determine if their home is at risk from hurricane hazards, and how to prepare for a hurricane.
Climbing the Marine Food Chain: An Exploration into Biological Oceanography, Tuesday, Feb. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for youth ages 11-14. Participants will learn about the dynamic oceanic food chain, starting at the bottom with tiny plankton and culminating with large macroscopic predators like sharks and whales.
Become an Underwater Explorer, Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to noon, for teens, ages 14-18. A second program runs from 1 to 4 p.m. on the same day. Participants will learn first hand about the operations of the Inner Space Center, how to stand watch during an exploration cruise, and meet and interview scientists about potential careers in ocean science.
Introduction to Oceanography, Thursday, Feb. 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for youth ages 7-10. Participants will investigate the biology, chemistry, physics and geology of the ocean in this hands-on, inquiry-based program.
For additional details, costs, and registration information about each of the programs, visit Vacation Programs or contact Holly Morin at 401-874-6414 or holly_morin@uri.edu