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be-WISE participates in "Meet the Scientist" at Escola da Ciencia Viva

be-WISE researcher Mónica Lopes-Marques delivered on the 31 of May 2024, a Science talk at Escola da Ciência Viva in Parque Biológico in Gaia, entitled:

"The Incredible Adaptations of Cetaceans"

In this activity designed for children aged 10-12, Mónica Lopes-Marques shared her research on marine mammals and their unique adaptations to aquatic life. The session, which saw participation from over 30 children from two schools, featured four hands-on experimental procedures to help students understand how these magnificent creatures thrive in environments so different from those of their ancestors- terrestrial mammals.

Students had the opportunity to actively participate in experiments and answer questions such as:

Why do cetaceans lack hair?

Why do cetaceans accumulate large amounts of fat?

How do cetaceans eat?

How do cetaceans hear?

Additionally, the children learned about the most common cetacean species found along the Portuguese coast, the sleeping habits of cetaceans, how to distinguish cetaceans from fish and sharks, and other fascinating facts about these incredible animals.

The aim of the activity was not only to educate students about cetaceans but also to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these animals and their environment.

See here a summary of the activity written by the participants in the weekly school leaflet

be-WISE, be-A SCIENCE COMMUNICATOR  

seja-SÁBIO, seja-UM COMMUNICADOR DE CIÊNCIA

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