Ms. Itwaru’s IB Environmental Science class recently took a trip to the National Aquarium in Baltimore, where students had the chance to experience marine life in a way that was both exciting and educational.

For students who had never visited the aquarium before, the experience was unforgettable. From the moment the class entered the building, the aquarium felt enormous, lively, and full of wonder. The exhibits were filled with fascinating sea life, and each room offered something new to discover.

One of the highlights of the trip was a private lesson on coral reefs. During the session, students learned that the largest coral reef in the world is the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. They also learned about the many threats coral reefs face, including pollution, climate change, and other human impacts. The lesson gave students a deeper understanding of how fragile coral ecosystems are and why protecting them is so important.

In addition to the educational lesson, students also enjoyed several memorable hands-on experiences throughout the day. The class got splashed by dolphins, touched stingrays, and explored the jellyfish exhibits. These moments made the trip even more engaging and brought classroom learning to life.

The visit to the aquarium gave students the chance to connect what they have been studying in class to the real world. It was a day filled with discovery, excitement, and a greater appreciation for marine ecosystems and the need to protect them.