What does overfishing mean for the ocean? (Secondary) - Introduction

• Social Studies
• History
• +3
• 9th,10th Grade

Introduction

This course provides six lessons that discuss overfishing as well as the issues of illegal fishing and by-catch. We look at the different types of fishing methods and activities and how they are impacting the ocean.

Instructions

Time: 45 minutes

Contact: [e-mail]
© Sea Shepherd 2022

What does overfishing mean for the ocean?

This course provides six lessons that discuss overfishing as well as the issues of illegal fishing and by-catch.  We look at the different types of fishing methods and activities and how they are impacting the ocean. 

Lesson 1 - What does overfishing mean?

This lesson explains what is meant by overfishing and sustainable fishing.

Learning activities:
    Research the current extent of overfishing and discuss a case study.

Lesson 2 - Why is overfishing happening?

This lesson discusses some of the reasons behind overfishing.

Learning activities:
    Investigate the changes in fishing since the 1950’s, and its impacts.

Lesson 3 - Why does illegal fishing occur?

This lesson explores the issue of illegal fishing and the activities conducted to hide these operations.

Learning activities:
    Research transhipping and create checklists for inspecting fishing vessels.

Lesson 4 - Why and how does by-catch occur?

This lesson discusses the issue of by-catch/discards, and some methods used to reduce by-catch.

Learning activities:
    Discuss several case studies, research the extent of by-catch in different fisheries.

Lesson 5 - How do fishing methods impact the ecosystem?

This lesson covers the different types of fishing methods used and how they impact the environment.

Learning activities:
    Research the different types of nets and what industry they are used by. Looking at how they contribute to by-catch and the potential damage to the ecosystem.

Lesson 6 - How do we reduce overfishing?

This lesson discusses the regulations and tools in place to address overfishing and illegal fishing.

Learning activities:
    Research ways to help stop overfishing/illegal fishing.
    Collate ideas on what students could do to stop overfishing and create action plans to implement these ideas.

www.seashepherdglobal.org

LEARNING ACTIVITIES