Fish Biology and Classification  

This curricular unit, which was developed through the partnership with Kawananakoa 8th grade teacher Raedelle Miyake, has also been used and modified by fellow Laura Rodman through her work at Waimanalo. Visit the Waimanalo Fish Curricular Unit to see this example of teamwork in action!

Primary Standards Addressed: 

Schedule:
DAY 1
Discussion: What is a fish? Class develops working definition of what a fish is.
DAY 2
External Anatomy of a generalized teleost fish. Basic parts and vocabulary for a ta’ape
DAY 3
Ta’ape dissection, organs of a generalized teleost. Stomach contents and parasites.
DAY 4
Selective pressures—environment. Slide show demonstrating fish from different habitats and their modifications.
DAY 5
Selective pressures—predators and prey. Bones and specimens showing feeding, camouflage, and escape modifications.
DAY 6
Waikiki Aquarium Field Trip. Observations on fish morphology and behavior related to lifestyle and selection pressures.
DAY 7
Present brief summary of Waikiki Aquarium observations to the class.
DAY 8
Practice using keys.
DAY 9
Discuss classification and vocabulary. Begin working on classification scheme.
DAY 10
Continue work on classification schemes.
DAY 11
Complete classification schemes. Classify unknown fish according to scheme ( we can do this according to their own scheme, or the groups can switch, and to determine how easy each other’s schemes are to use).  

Student's drawing of a taape,  Lutjanus kasmira, with labels of external structures and their functions.

Using the 4-Mat System: How does this program address different learning styles? 

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