PBL Resources
These modules, developed by California State Parks and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, teach students about what marine protected areas (MPAs) are, why they were created, and how they are being monitored for progress. The modules align with both Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards. They are written at a 5th grade level, but are easily adaptable for students in grade 3-7. Start with the introduction module titled "Dive In." Next choose one, or all four, of the specific MPA modules. Finish with the conclusion module titled "Resurface." Students may work independently, in groups, or led by the teacher.
Dive Into MPAs!
Marine protected areas (MPAs) were created with six main goals in mind. This module will introduce students to some of those goals and explain why ocean habitats and habitat communities are important resources that humans should protect and sustain.
Año Nuevo
State Marine Reserve
State Marine Reserve
Año Nuevo SMR is located along California's central coast right off Año Nuevo State Park, home to a large breeding colony of elephant seals. In this module, students will discover the ways in which this SMR could be protecting elephant seals and other organisms sharing this habitat.
Crystal Cove
State Marine Conservation Area
State Marine Conservation Area
Crystal Cove SMCA is located in Southern California and is popular for its tidepool habitats. In this module students will explore the idea of monitoring habitats with indicator species and they will get to know the organisms that live in the area.
Pyramid Point
State Marine Conservation Area
State Marine Conservation Area
Pyramid Point SMCA is located on California's northern coast near a salmon run. In this module, students will learn the struggles that salmon face during their complicated life cycle, and how they are part of a larger food web.
Point Lobos
State Marine Reserve
State Marine Reserve
Point Lobos SMR is located along the central California coast where a giant kelp forest grows. In this module, students will become familiar with this underwater forest, its importance to wildlife, and what we are doing to preserve it.
Resurface
Students will reflect on their learning about MPAs by interpreting MPA data and reviewing main points through a series of interactive videos.
California State Parks' Marine Protected Area Outreach & Education Project is funded by a grant from the California Ocean Protection Council.
If you have questions about PORTS marine life and marine protected area (MPA) programs,
please contact MPA Outreach and Education Project Coordinator, Erika Delemarre at Erika.Delemarre@parks.ca.gov.