Fish from the trawl are observed in a tank. A key is used to identify fish species. Species and numbers are recorded on the data sheets. Students are led in a discussion of fish anatomy, sensory perception, respiration, habitat requirements, feeding adaptations, ecological relationships, and management problems. Fish are returned live to the lake after the sessions.
Students assist the captain and crew with steering the vessel and routine jobs around the ship.
Students will learn to tie knots or coil lines, and will learn how the sails and lines control and power the ship. They practice using a compass, plotting courses and bearings, and identifying aids to navigation. Contents of the plankton net are examined with a video microscope. A discussion follows on plant and animal plankton, ecological relationships, life histories, seasonal changes, pollution effects. Students identify major types of zooplankton with a key.