Choose Marine Sciences as your additional school subject
Half of the subject content focuses on marine biology - other components include physical science, geography, ecology and human impacts on the planet and ocean.
THE Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation reminds Grade 9 learners, who are now preparing to make decisions about their education, they can select Marine Sciences as an eighth subject choice for 2022.
Marine Sciences was first offered at three ‘node schools’ in the Western Cape in 2019.
ALSO READ: Apply for subsidised TV decoder now, says SA Post Office
In 2020, it was recognised as an official school subject and, in 2021, was included in the school curriculum.
Since then, a number of students have been receiving instruction in the subject, both at the node schools and through the Foundation’s online learning programme.
The subject is made up of four pillars: marine biology, oceanography, ocean ecosystems, and humans and the ocean.
The course work covers 85 topics, including marine phyla; the chemistry of water; gas laws used for diving science, sustainable seafood, aquaculture, and marine protected areas.
The subject is presented over a three-year period and counts towards the learners’ matric certificate.
Deputy head of education, Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation Xavier Zylstra said Marine Sciences is a powerful new subject that they have been really excited about launching in South Africa.
‘Those who are passionate about the ocean and life in the ocean, and think you may want to go into a career involving marine biology or oceanography, then this is one of your steps up to university.
‘Even if you’re not aiming for a career in marine biology and oceanography, the content and many academic skills you will learn will equip you to succeed in tertiary studies in other fields.
‘You will also be a knowledgeable amateur marine biologist, with the ability to identify, to some extent, most organisms that you can expect to see while rock-pooling or snorkelling along the South African coastline,’ he said.
Online facilitation of the course is done via Zoom and the Foundation’s e-learning platform. The course requires a commitment of four hours a week, which is broken down into two two-hour sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays. The course also has a practical learning component completed during the South African public school holidays. Examinations are written at students’
schools, or at a designated examination centre. The starting date for the next intake for the subject is 24 January 2022.
Although Marine Sciences are primarily aimed at high school learners, the Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation also welcomes adults who would like to sign up for the subject and learn more about the ocean.
Registration for the full Marine Sciences 2022 course opened on 25 August 2021. For more information and to register, please visit https://aquariumfoundation.org.za/marine-sciences-curriculum/ or email education@aquariumfoundation.org.za
