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.