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Very interesting to read about the socioeconomic importance of aquaculture and job opportunities in many areas but especially on the West coast. Areas of environmental responsibility and sustainability are vital to protect livelihoods of those currently employed and to raise awareness to general public and those who will be employed in these areas in the future.
For a Geography lesson I would start with a map of the World and explain that 71% of Earth is covered in water. I would briefly discuss the socio-economic opportunities that these waters offers.
I would zone in on Europe and then Ireland itself. I would draw attention to the coastline on Ireland’s coasts and introduce cardinal directions North South East and West which are vital for map reading.
I would introduce the term island and show how Ireland is an island surrounded by water with over 7,500 km of coastline and draw attention to the marine landscapes introducing terms such as harbours, bay and beaches and then extend this further to include terms such as estuaries and lakes.
I would zone in on the area that our school is located in. Where possible I would have aerial photographs of the area to help pupils see firsthand mountains, cliffs and beaches and if appropriate landmarks in the area.
Use of online mapping software would allow pupils gain an understanding as to the location of aqua culture farms. I would discuss different types of farms salmon (deep waters, easy to reach areas), oysters (intertidal zones, secluded areas to ensure minimal disruption to trestles and bags) and mussels (requirements similar to those of oyster farms) .I would explain what each farm needs to thrive successfully.
A task to allow pupils discuss in pairs or small groups what coastline and then what exact location would be suitable for each farm .
Mapping and mathematical skills would be introduced and developed.
Part 2:
As noted in module 1 technological developments have allowed aquafarming to be less strenuous on those directly employed in this area. Generation of families may opt to work in this area. Produce from aquafarms are no longer solely exported and are now offered directly to the homemarket. This allows jobs in many areas such as packing eg fishing co-ops, couriers and local hospitality – cafes and restaurants. Tourism is also an area that would benefit from aquafarms allowing people to witness first hand the workings of the farms – how the produce is harvested and explanation of the timeline as to how produce is then served in a as part of a delicious meal in a local restaurant.
Hi Rosemarie
I live near the sea and work in a more urban based school. I agree that pupils are not familiar with their own local environment. Their knowledge is minimal on employment opportunities in their area as a whole. I aim to develop this further across the SEE subjects and having completed module 1 on aquaculture am aware that this is an industry in nearby villages. I am looking forward to sharing resources on my return in September to my classroom and to share with teaching colleagues who are teaching in 5th/6th class bands.
Have thoroughly enjoyed Module 1 Introduction to Aquaculture. My home place is by the sea so am familiar (somewhat from my younger days ) with crab and lobster pot fishing on a small punt and later rod and line fishing for mackerel. The resources mentioned are excellent for displaying on the classroom IWB for aquaculture – mussel, oyster and salmon fishing. Pupils are invested greatly in technology would greatly benefit from the youtube links and also with the ARC classroom. The classroom is accessible for all pupils and the day structure seems excellent allowing pupils to engage in individual and group learning. I feel the lessons would be excellent to allow pupils gain a better understanding of aquaculture and its importance in relieving pressure on land based protein. Each pupil can then reflect on their food sources and review their choices in eating healthy and choosing sustainable food sources. I have recently moved from SET to the classroom and am in a class level lower than that which ARC is aimed at but will share the information with teaching colleagues on my return at a staff meeting.
