Hello, my name is Barbara Muren, Network Manager at Snively Elementary in Winter Haven, FL. I am also a Teacher Consultant with the Florida Geographic Alliance. The purpose of this site is to provide information about the project and a place to communicate Live from the Field with the students at Snively Elementary. The subjects we will be focusing on are science, geography, math, music, and technology. From August 27th to Sept. 2nd, I will post pictures and keep a journal of the daily activities aboard the research sailboat, Silurian. This is all possible through a generous grant given by National Geographic Education Foundation in support of the Earthwatch Education Fellowship Program and a grant from the National Geographic Education Foundation to promote geographic literacy through field research, technology, and collaboration. Thank You, also, to Polk County School Board, my principal, Dr. Joann McKinney, and all the teachers and students at Snively Elementary for their ongoing support. Especially Ms. Lambeth, thank you for making it possible to video conference.
Where are the Hebrides?
The Hebrides are a group of inner and outer islands off the west coast of Scotland. This link www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk is a great description of the Hebrides and also includes a map. * Use this United Kingdom Map to find Tobermory, Isle of Mull, an inner island of the Hebridean Sea. It is our rendezvous point for this project. For a real cool view, use your Google Earth program and fly to Tobermory.
What specific Whales and Dolphins are we researching?
The focus of our research includes the harbor porpoise, minke whale, bottlenose dolphin, grey and common seals and basking sharks. * Check out: HWDT for great descriptions and images.
Why are we collecting data on the Hebridean cetaceans?
The information will identify particular areas of importance or "hotspots" for cetaceans. This will provide an effective conservation strategy, the conservation of marine environment. Results: economic and social benefits to the whole region and protected areas for the cetaceans. * Check out: HWDT
Is there a specific time to do this research?
This project has expeditions running from mid April till the end of September. Moreover, the community members of the area are thoroughly involved with the research. Even visitors can fill out an online form of their exciting sightings. * Check out: HWDT
Did you know...that in Scotland... a lake is called a 'loch' and a strait is called a 'firth' and a sound is called 'kyle'?

Sunday, August 27, 2006

Sunday night - Anxious

The views here are beautiful. It seems like a melting pot of the cities of the USA. The beaches, lochs and rivers like FL - the wind sometimes like Chicago, IL - the rain and climate like Seattle, WA. The temperatures have been ranging from 13-18 degrees C. It has rained almost everyday but it comes and goes. I have learned so much about the Scotland way. The people are very nice and helpful, especially to a young female trying to find her way. Keep checking the Marquee above for equilvalent sayings. For ex. To Let = For Rent; Eeye = Yes. The usual diet has gone to the way side - eating fish & chips. But with all the walking here and there, Tiger, Sheep & I will be okay. Well, need to go. Internet here is .89 a pound for 15 min.'s. I'm excited and very anxious about the sailboating. My stomach has been dancing all day. I bought wrist bands and dramamin to hopefully way the sea sickness. Cheers for now! Be sure to get with Mrs. McKinney or Mrs. Mastrangelo to post any questions.

posted by barefootin' @ Sunday, August 27, 2006   1 comments

1 Comments:

At Tuesday, August 29, 2006 9:19:00 AM, Blogger barefootin' said...

The tiger didn't take the dramanine tablet this morning and doesn't have much experience on boats; thus, he is feeling alittle queasy but pressing onward.

 

Post a Comment

<< Home