OPIHI for Elementary Students

teacher and two children collecting data

The OPIHI curriculum and monitoring procedures have been modified for upper elementary audiences. The elementary protocol utilizes the transect point-intercept method and quadrats for a presence/absence survey (rather than a point-intercept method). This program was piloted at Diamond Head Beach Park on O‘ahu and is thus reflective of the dominant species found in this area.

Students first need to become familiar with the intertidal environment and intertidal species in order to plan their investigation.

boy looking in petri dish

Students should practice the protocol multiple times—in a courtyard and in a classroom.

Two children practicing in yard
Students practicing in classroom

This will prepare students for collecting data in the field.

Students and teacher collecting data
Students with teacher collecting data
Students and teachers collecting data