Charlie has become bored with the workbooks we are using in his Homeschooling classroom. So this morning I found a new website called NOAA Waterlife. Knowing Charlie loves water and swimming I couldn’t wait to share it with him. As well as the animals that they feature on the website. As it would allow Charlie to learn and not even know he was attending school.
So I would like to invite you to check out (NOAA) which is The National and Atmospheric Administration. When you’re on the website check out the game they have for you to play. As Charlie had a lot of fun playing and we were able to discuss ways to keep our Environment clean at all times.
Age Range: 9-18 (Grades 4-12, with parental supervision)
This website is sponsored by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). They offer what NOAA refers to as a “serious” arcade-type game to learn the factors that produce healthy estuaries, food webs, and why estuaries are essential to all life on earth.
The game is based on an ecosystem of a United States west coast estuary and follows an animated human girl as she encounters a talking sea otter. Together they visit an “oracle” (a wise old turtle) who introduces them to a geoduck clam. The characters embark on a journey that raises student awareness and interest in estuaries, water quality, tides, endangered and threatened species, pollution and marine debris, and what students can do to help. The characters face challenges along the way, and by using the game’s “Field Guide” they get in-depth information that helps them heal the estuary and return home safely.
There is lots of good content here delivered through downloadable pdf, activities, and quizzes. We found the game to be a bit slow-moving and we didn’t spot any “obvious” way to fast forward. That may be intentional by the designers who want students to take the time to learn the various concepts and information offered.
For more games, click on the “Games@NOAA” button on the left-hand menu to play arcade games and interactive activities focused on ocean and air themes. NOTE: Some of the links in the other sections did not work, but the games worked fine.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
