Partners in Science

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Norwalk, CT

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk in Norwalk, CT offers a multi-tiered approach to field studies that support the 2004 CT Core Science Curriculum Framework. First, there is the opportunity for self-guided tours of the Aquarium’s many animal exhibits. The staff also provides guided tours. Next there are auditorium programs; one is a hands-on and demonstration program about watersheds and the water cycle and the others are multi-media presentations about sharks, whales or coastal creatures. In the theatre, IMAX films are offered several times a day. The schedule can be found at the Aquarium’s website www.maritimeaquarium.org. In addition, larger groups can request specific films to be shown. 

Small groups can request classroom programs. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on, inquiry-based activities including dissecting a squid, designing experiments for crabs, using microscopes to examine plankton, or building model boats.

Finally, the Aquarium offers two types of outdoor programs: field studies at a local beach and boat trips aboard the R/V Oceanic. Students use field equipment to collect specimens and/or data to study the Long Island Sound shoreline, its waters or marine life.

The staff is continually updating the museum’s programs and will also develop programs to fit the needs of individual schools. This list is not intended to be a complete listing. For complete descriptions and more information visit their website: www.maritimeaquarium.org

Teacher Preparation:

No specific teacher preparation is required though the staff will work with teachers to pick the appropriate program to support their curricula.  The Aquarium does offer free teacher orientation programs to help the teacher with understanding the content and the best way to use the facilities. The staff also can offer suggestions for pre- and post-visit activities and interdisciplinary connections. Finally, the Aquarium offers Teacher Workshops on various topics and pre-screenings of the IMAX films.

To view aligned field trips at the Maritime Aquarium, visit our
Science Framework Resources Database