Oceans Rock® School AssemblyReal Shark Jaws, Taxidermy Sharks & 30+ Marine Specimens for Grades PreK–8

The Earth has five major oceans: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern and Arctic. Together they form one interconnected global ocean.

• The oceans hold about 97% of Earth’s water.
• They regulate the planet’s climate by absorbing heat and moving it around the globe.
• Oceans are home to an estimated 2.2 million species, and much of the deep ocean is still unexplored.

Horseshoe crabs are called “living fossils” because they have existed for over 450 million years.

• Unique biology: their blue blood is used in medical research to detect bacterial contamination in vaccines and medical equipment.
• Ecological role: their eggs are a critical food source for migrating birds along the Atlantic coast.
• Conservation: overharvesting and habitat loss threaten their populations.

Sharks are apex predators that keep marine ecosystems healthy.

• Diversity: over 500 species, from the tiny dwarf lanternshark to the enormous whale shark.
• Balance: by preying on weak and sick animals, sharks keep fish populations healthy.
• Threats: overfishing and habitat destruction have reduced many shark species.

Hydrothermal vents are underwater geysers along mid-ocean ridges, where tectonic plates spread apart.

• Formation: seawater seeps into the crust, heats up and returns as superheated, mineral-rich water.
• Unique life: giant tube worms and vent crabs live without sunlight through chemosynthesis.
• Science: vents help scientists imagine how life might exist on other planets.

• Mid-ocean ridges like the Mid-Atlantic Ridge form where plates pull apart and new crust is made.
• Deep trenches like the Mariana Trench form where one plate slides beneath another.
• Seafloor spreading constantly reshapes the ocean floor.

Tides are the regular rise and fall of the sea, caused by the pull of the Moon and Sun.

• Spring tides are stronger, when the Sun, Moon and Earth line up.
• Neap tides are weaker, when the Sun and Moon are at right angles to Earth.
• Tsunamis are huge waves, often caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

• Over thousands of years, wind, water and waves break rocks and shells into tiny particles.
• Sand color depends on its source, such as quartz, coral or volcanic rock.
• Beaches act as a buffer between the ocean and the land.

• Reduce plastic waste by using reusable products.
• Support marine conservation of coral reefs and mangroves.
• Choose sustainable fishing to prevent overfishing.
• Learn and take part in programs like Oceans Rock® that inspire action.

Students touch real marine specimens, fossil shark teeth and shells, then sift through a dig to find and keep their own ocean treasures. Skilled presenters bring the wonders of the ocean to life for every grade from Pre-kindergarten to 8th grade, creating a lasting connection to the ocean that goes beyond the classroom.