If you’re ever nervous about trying something new, remember: it’s okay to wobble at first. That’s where the adventure begins!
Join Atom on an unforgettable school trip to Monterey Bay! October 25, 2024, was a day filled with excitement as students and teachers, including myself, embarked on a tandem kayaking adventure along the stunning Del Monte Beach. This experience was more than just paddling-it was a journey of teamwork, learning, and connecting with the incredible marine environment around us. From navigating the waters to observing and learning about sea lions, otters, brown pelicans, and sea kelp up close, it was a day of scientific discovery and fun for everyone!
Special thanks to one of my amazing students for sharing her stunning Monterey Bay video clip, which opens this episode, and to our Head of School, Brian Yager, for capturing the perfect photo of Kathy and me tandem kayaking. Most importantly, my heartfelt thanks to Kathy for being my tandem kayak partner!
Topics Covered:
--Tandem Kayaking Basics
Teamwork, rhythm, and trust in paddling.
Applying Newton’s Third Law of Motion in real-time to kayaking
-Sea Lions
Unique physical traits, swimming skills, and vocal communication.
Their ecological role and fascinating behaviors.
-Sea Otters
Incredible adaptations, from dense fur to tool use.
The remarkable bond between mother otters and pups.
Endangered species.
-California Brown Pelicans
History of near-extinction and comeback.
Impact of environmental challenges like DDT and climate change.
-Sea Kelp
Fast-growing “rainforest of the sea” and its importance.
Uses in daily life and role in combating climate change.
-Reflection
Overcoming fears and embracing the adventure of trying something new.
Sources:
www.bbcearth.com/news/genius-sea-otter-parents
www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/california-sea-lion/overview
www.kqed.org/science/1992933/california-has-a-theory-on-why-brown-pelicans-are-starving-and-dying
www.nwf.org/Magazines/National-Wildlife/2000/How-Rachel-Carson-Helped-Save-The-Brown-Pelican
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK601838/
www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/brown_pelicanfactsheet09.pdf
indianaaudubon.org/2016/01/25/brown-pelican/
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Happy learning! Thank you!