10 Reasons the Bay of Fundy is a Great Classroom

This article was published a few years ago in our newsletter, SeaWords. I thought it would be fun to share again.

Beyond Classroom Walls 

With 160 billion tonnes of water flowing in and out of the Bay of Fundy with each tidal cycle – more than the combined flow of the world’s rivers – it is easy to see why its one of the seven natural wonders of Canada. For over 30 years the Huntsman Education Department has introduced 42,000+ students to the wonderful classroom that is the Bay of Fundy.

Ten Reasons the Bay of Fundy is a Great Classroom 

1. Live specimens – Being able to touch and closely observe live marine creatures is an amazing opportunity that engages and excites students.

2. Real time data – Students are able to gather data on invasive species, marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, zonation patterns, and temperature and salinity gradients.

3. Cross curricular – Marine biology is the main focus however, math, art, history and language arts are all by-products as students analyze statistics, complete biological drawings, learn about the area and fishing history and pick up new vocabulary.

4. Biodiversity –As one of the most biologically rich and productive environments on our planet, the Bay offers encounters with invertebrates, fish, seabirds, marine mammals, seaweeds, plankton and more. One group of students identified over 30 species of invertebrates they had collected from the benthic and intertidal environments!

5. Engages all senses – While out on our research vessel, students use all their senses, even taste. Sample a scallop you just caught, smell the salt air, touch a slippery sea cucumber, listen to the gulls and see the beautiful ocean around you.

6. Highest tides in the world – These amazing tides, that drop eight meters, in six hours allow students to walk on the ocean floor and get a firsthand view of an ‘underwater habitat’.

7. Encourages teachable moments – Being in the field allows teachers to take advantage of ideas that capture a student’s interest, without the constraints of bells and class schedules.

8. Flexible – Engages students of all learning styles and encourages curiosity.

9. Unplugged – Why would you want to be plugged in when you could be on the search for a four foot worm on the mud flats?

10. It’s Canada – What better place to explore and understand but those habitats which are your own backyard.

And last, but not least, its fun!

To make the Bay of Fundy your classroom book a field trip. Visit our website for more details.