School Groups
2011–2012 Educational Classes
We offer a varied selection of programs designed to meet the curriculum standards set forth by state and national educators in the areas of Science, Math, Social Studies and English. Inquire about our TN Title 1 student rates and our NEW for 2012 virtual classroom programs. Students and teachers can enjoy an aquarium classroom program from the comfort of your school.
We strive to ensure that the experiences provided will be an extension of what is learned in the classroom, and to provide students with a deeper understanding of why it is important to protect and conserve our ocean’s environment.
FIND A CLASS & MAKE YOUR RESERVATION ONLINE!
The classes listed below may be adapted to any age level. Use the tabs to find a class you want, then click the “Reserve Your Class Here” button to make your reservation online. Easy!
RESERVE YOUR CLASS HERE
Students learn about the fascinating creatures you might encounter while walking on the beach. From sea stars to jellies, you’ll discover an exciting world of marine life during this game.
Sharks Tails and Teeth
What makes sharks different from all the other fish in the ocean? Students will explore shark diversity while uncovering their many unique adaptations.
Classes for Pre-K
Movin’ and Groovin’
Music and fun are the basis of this program designed especially for Pre-K students. Using movement, students will learn how different underwater animals make their way through the ocean.
Ocean Art
Art and fun are the basis of this program designed especially for Pre-K students. Using art, students will learn where different underwater animals live in the ocean.
Waddle This Way
Students learn that all penguins don’t look alike during this program. After learning about the different types of penguins, students will move and even carry an egg like a penguin.
Classes for K-2nd Grade
What Am I
Students are asked, ‘What Am I?’ when they are shown a close up view of some of the animals found in the ocean. After many amusing guesses, the animal’s identity is revealed along with some amazing facts.
Habitat Sweet Habitat
Students discover the characteristics of a habitat while exploring the sights and inhabitants of the coral reef, tropical rainforest, Antarctic and Appalachian forest.
Fish Bowl
Students will explore the characteristics of a habitat from the perspective of a goldfish. Are food, water, and shelter the only things a goldfish needs to survive? Find out during this hands-on discovery.
Feathered and Flightless
Penguins may be birds but they are different than the ones we see flying in the sky. Students will learn about the adaptations that enable penguins to survive in the ocean habitat.
Classes for 3rd-5th Grades
Mr. Potato Fish
Students learn why fish are shaped the way they are when we talk about the coloration, mouth, tail, and body shapes of different fish. Students will have the opportunity to build their own fish using a potato and explain its habitat and adaptations.
Pollution Solution
Will pollution here in Tennessee ever reach the Gulf of Mexico? Find out as students tackle the problem of pollution and explore its effect on our local environment and beyond.
What’s In A Name
Little blue, rockhopper and chinstrap are just a few of the unique names penguins have. After learning about penguin adaptations and habitats, students will be given a penguin and will determine its name through a series of questions.
Ripley’s Ocean Challenge
Students team up during this ‘Jeopardy’ style trivia game to test their knowledge of various science topics. The thrill of competition makes learning fun and exciting!
Classes for 6th-8th Grades
Fossil Find
Do you have what it takes to be an archaeologist? Can you look through soil, put your findings under a microscope and determine what animal the fossil belongs to? Students will have the opportunity to see rare fossils and learn about their origin.
Macro Vs. Micro
Plankton are plants and animals that cannot swim against a current, they go wherever the water takes them. During this activity, students will learn how to use two types of microscopes while exploring the diverse world of plankton.
Match Maker
The relationships between organisms are an important part of survival. Students will learn which relationships are beneficial and which are harmful when they match up the organisms during this activity.
Ripley’s Ocean Challenge
Students team up during this ‘Jeopardy’ style trivia game to test their knowledge of various science topics. The thrill of competition makes learning fun and exciting!
Classes for High School (9th-12th)
Squid Dissection
There are more than 300 different types of squid that have been identified around the world. However, it is believed that many more exist. This program will teach students about squid and how they function.
What’s In Our Water?
The chemistry of water is vital to the health of our fish. Discover the steps we take every day to provide our animals with a clean and healthy environment.
Ripley’s Ocean Challenge
Students team up during this ‘Jeopardy’ style trivia game to test their knowledge of various science topics. The thrill of competition makes learning fun and exciting!
DO YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?
Please call the Education Department 888-240-1358 ext. 2142 or send an email to our education department.
Teacher & Chaperone Policy
We recognize the important role that teachers/chaperones play on field trips. Our admission policy is as follows:
- Grades Preschool 2-5 yrs old: 1 free adult for every 5 paid students
- Grades Kindergarten–12th: 1 free adult for every 10 paid students
Souvenir Guide Books
Purchase your Souvenir Guide Book for $2.00 plus tax each. The guide book is filled with a lot of useful and educational information.
Also visit the Cargo Hold, a wonderful gift shop filled with educational as well as fun souvenirs. Chaperones are required to stay with their group of students while in the Cargo Hold.

