easy
45 minutes
Suitable for typical school-aged children comfortable sitting and focusing during a short lesson
Engage homeschool students with a hands-on squid dissection and marine biology program in Denver. Perfect for ages 11-18 looking to dive into ocean science.
For students in grades 6th-12th, ages 11-18 years old
Dive into the fascinating world of squids with an engaging 45-minute classroom program designed for students aged 11-18. Experience hands-on dissection, learn about their unique adaptations, and explore the aquarium exhibits. This unique opportunity combines education with adventure, led by expert educators, ensuring a memorable day of discovery and fun.
#Learn about the World's Largest, Fastest & most Specialized Invertebrate - the Squid!
Student (Ages 11-18): $9.50
*Please Note: Due to the popularity of classroom programs, there is a registration maximum of 2 programs per child. This class is only for students ages 11-18, no parents or younger siblings due to space constraints. Adults please make sure to book a self-guided tour ticket for your admission to the aquarium. The class includes admission for the student.
##Duration 45 minutes
##Home-School Day The Downtown Aquarium welcomes home school students and families! Explore the Aquarium exhibits with your family for a discounted rate, participate in an engaging classroom program, and enjoy visits from animal ambassadors. Pre-registration is required. Register online and submit with payment to reserve your spot! No discounted payment at the door will be accepted – any tickets purchased the day of the event will be full price through the Ticket Office.
Join us for an in-depth look at the world's largest, fastest and most specialized invertebrate - the squid! Students will learn about the squid's interesting body parts both inside and out as they dissect one in partner teams. Leave the teaching to us! Put your students in the hands of our expert Aquarium educators for exciting classroom lessons on conservation, adaptation, food webs, habitats, locomotion, and defense. Classroom programs are all correlated with the Colorado Model Content Standards. Classroom programs also include admission to the exhibits for a Self-Guided Tour at no extra fee.
##Dining Lunches: Please plan to keep lunches outside. Food may be enjoyed in the grass next to the Aquarium, or in the case of poor weather, extremely limited space may be available. Plan to dress warmly and eat outdoors on all occasions. Restaurant Reservations: If you are interested in dining with us during your visit, please call the restaurant for reservations.
##Policies and Guidelines DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM DOES NOT HAVE A STORAGE AREA FOR LUNCHES, COATS OR BACKPACKS.
Chaperones must monitor the students while at the Downtown Aquarium. • Be respectful of other visitors. • Listen to instruction from our staff and volunteers. • Do not touch animals without permission from Downtown Aquarium staff. • Do not tap on exhibit windows. • Use indoor voices, and walk through exhibit pathways. • Do not put anything in the water (fingers, food, coins or other objects)! • Keep your feet on the pathway at all times. No climbing on rocks, trees or exhibit features. • Do not eat, drink, chew gum or smoke inside Downtown Aquarium.
Review basic squid anatomy beforehand to maximize engagement and understanding during the hands-on session.
Encourage students to interact with educators to deepen scientific curiosity and comprehension.
Expect a hands-on dissection; wear clothes that can get a little messy or bring a lab coat if preferred.
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to explore marine exhibits and set the stage for the lesson.
Denver’s aquarium has a long tradition of innovative educational programs focusing on aquatic ecosystems in an inland region.
The program emphasizes marine conservation through education, encouraging stewardship and awareness among youth.
For taking notes and sketching observations during the dissection.
Protects clothing during hands-on dissection activities.
Wear clothing that allows ease of movement and can handle minor messes.
Stay hydrated during the classroom and aquarium visit.