Course number: 6441, 6442
Grades: 11-12
UC/CSU a-g requirement: d, see note
Weighted credit: No
Recommended: Must have completed at least two courses from Physics, Chemistry and Biology with a B or better
A two-semester elective course designed to give advanced science students an extensive background in Marine Science. The course includes challenging activities, laboratory exercises, field experiences and class projects. This Marine Science course utilizes college level textbooks, exhaustive essay exams, significant laboratory work, and oral presentations. Students are expected to master concepts that reveal the relationship between the fields of Geology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, and Biology as they relate to the Oceans.
The first semester covers the origins of the universe, the Earth and its oceans, marine chemistry, marine geology, physical oceanography, atmosphere / ocean interaction, ocean currents, waves, and tides. The second semester is dedicated to marine biology and related fields. This semester begins with an ecological approach to ocean life. Students will learn about primary productivity, how it is influenced by changes in latitude, depth, and oceanic variables. Students will also learn about the complex diversity of marine habitats, protists, animals and plants.
Students should be aware that this course is taught from an interdisciplinary perspective and students' knowledge of other sciences is mandatory.
Note: This course may only count as the third year of laboratory science d requirement