The goal of the Science Department is to provide personalized, timely and quality service and resources for teachers/administrators in schools, districts and the county. The Science Department also provides resources to students, parents, businesses, informal science leaders, colleges and universities. Services are geared toward optimum science instruction for all students. Through various programs, workshops, symposia and community activities, LACOE's Science Consultants strive to improve academic achievement, scientific literacy, classroom instructional practices and leadership strategies for students, teachers and administrators. The Science Department offers ongoing training for teachers and administrators, focused on the specific needs of the schools in the 81 K-12 districts of L.A. County.
Outdoor Marine Field Study
The Marine Science Floating Lab (MSFL) is an excellent opportunity for students to explore the amazing biodiversity of what is often a hidden habitat. Watershed and biodiversity are emphasized. Activities include collecting a bottom sediment sample to observe and record invertebrates, an otter trawl net which collects a wide range of fish, mammals, and invertebrates from on and near the bottom, a plankton tow and plankton observation with a microscope, water quality studies, and other activities that may be requested to meet the needs of the specific grade level and curriculum. Students will also observe birds, sea lions, and other marine mammals that may be in the area. While underway to the collection areas, students observe and discuss Los Angeles Harbor, shipping vessels, breakwater function, and a variety of ecosystem and environmental engineering topics.
L.A. students step outside of the urban environment to experience nature and hands-on science instruction in 3-5 day residential programs at the Outdoor Science School.
