After 13 days “at sea”, we have become so knowledgeable about life in the ocean, but “man-oh-manatee”, there is so much more for us to learn! Here is a recap of our last week in Ocean Adventures:

MONDAY: We were “under pressure” as we traveled down, down, down, to the deep, dark abyss. It was cold and so very dark! How can anything find food down here? We learned about bioluminescence—the night light of the sea. Some of the creatures from the deep sea are pretty creepy. Others are absolutely breathtaking!

TUESDAY: Gentle is the word for today. We learned about two very gentle creatures: the manatee and the seahorse! Did you know that the manatee, although it looks very fat, has no blubber on its body? And did you know the seahorse is the only species in which the male gets pregnant and gives birth? So cool!

WEDNESDAY: We spent most of the day looking at the other Summer Academy class projects and finishing up our own for the open house. We may have even watched Miss Frizzle take students on a field trip under the sea in her Magic School Bus. In some ways, Captain G. and Captain T. can relate to her crazy antics!

THURSDAY: Today, we learned about seven issues that are causing our oceans major problems. From oil spills, to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, to shark finning, to acidification, and even global warming---we need to take action to prevent further damage. Are you an “Energy Star”? We know ways you can become one! Just ask us! Every little bit helps!

It has been a “fintastic” 13 days! We have thoroughly enjoyed working with your children. We now “wave” goodbye and hope we get to “sea” you around Summer Academy next summer!

Thank you!Michelle Gilsrud (Captain G.) Carrie Thoreson (Captain T.)

FUN FACT:Manatees are very flatulent! Their diet creates a lot of gas.

FUN FACT:The sea turtle can hold its breath for up to 5 hours! During long dives, the green sea turtle’s heart rate slows to conserve oxygen. Nine minutes may pass between heartbeats!

Ocean Jokes: Q: Why was the whale so sad? A: Because he was a Blue Whale.

Q: How do sea turtles talk to each other? A: They use shell phones.

Jellyfish craft to make at home:http://bhoomplay.wordpress.com/2011/09/09/diy_jellyfish_eng/

Manta Ray paper folding craft to make at home: (difficult)

http://www.papercraftsquare.com/canon-papercraft-animals-paper-model-manta-ray-manta-birostris-free-download.html