Aquatic Adventures at the Georgia Aquarium

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

The Georgia Aquarium isn't just big—it's one of the largest aquariums in the world! It's filled with some of the most incredible sea animals ever seen.

It's not just about looking at and admiring the sea animals; it's also about making a difference. The aquarium helps protect endangered animals like whale sharks and manta rays and studies ocean life to find ways to keep it safe and healthy.

Oceans are facing big challenges, like pollution. Trash in the water can harm animals, and rising ocean temperatures make it harder for some sea creatures to survive.

You can discover simple ways to help at the aquarium, like using less plastic and keeping our waterways clean.

At the Georgia Aquarium, you'll face some of the ocean's most interesting-looking animals.

Whale sharks are gentle giants and as long as a school bus. The aquarium works to protect their homes from threats like overfishing and pollution.

Manta rays glide through the water with huge, wing-like fins. They eat tiny plankton, helping keep the ocean balanced, and the aquarium makes sure they have clean water.

Beluga whales are playful and curious and always look like they're smiling. Scientists at the aquarium study belugas to help protect their chilly homes.

Bright, colorful fish are not just fun to look at; they help keep coral reefs healthy. Coral reefs, in return, protect and feed the fish.

Seahorses might be tiny, but they are some of the most unique creatures in the ocean. They can grip onto plants with their curly tails and even change colors to blend in with their surroundings.

Starfish may be small, but they play a big role in keeping the ocean clean by eating leftover bits of food. Some can even regrow their arms if they lose one!

Every ocean animal has a special job. If one species struggles, it can affect the entire ecosystem.

• Did you know that oceans cover more than 70% of our planet?

That's most of the earth! Oceans do a lot for us, too.

Ocean plants like seaweed help make oxygen, which we need to breathe. They provide food; many of the fish and shrimp we eat come from the ocean. Plus, the ocean absorbs heat from the sun, keeping our climate balanced.

But our oceans are in trouble. Pollution and trash are harming marine life.

When visiting the aquarium, there are many ways to learn how to help keep the ocean clean and protect ocean habitats.

You can feel like you're entering an underwater world full of surprises at every turn! You can watch huge whale sharks glide overhead in a tunnel, see dolphins leap and play in exciting shows, and even touch stingrays and sea stars in special interactive exhibits.

Explore a 4D theater experience that brings ocean life to you with sights, sounds, and even splashes of water. Walk through an acrylic tunnel surrounded by sea creatures, making you feel like you are swimming with them.

Whether you like sharks, playful penguins, or glowing jellyfish, there's always something amazing to see and do at the Georgia Aquarium.

How Much Do You Know About the Ocean?

Try to answer each question below before flipping the card.

Awesome work! You've explored some of the most amazing creatures at the Georgia Aquarium and learned why ocean ecosystems are so important.

Now, swim to the Got It? section to show off your ocean smarts!