Ocean Action: an adventure in Beachtown

Abstract

[Extract] Ocean Action: An Adventure in Beachtown is the second book to be published in the Children's Science Writing Project Series, sponsored by the School of Education, James Cook University. The fiction story cleverly links the mystery of turtle killings with factual scientific information about marine habitats and environmental issues. As the inquisitive children in the fictional town of Beachtown solve the mystery they also learn about the unique characteristics of their coastal environment. The goal of Ocean Action is to encourage children in primary schools to develop an informed view of marine science whilst enjoying reading and related activities.

Ocean Action possesses another fascinating characteristic - it is written and illustrated entirely by children. Under the supervision of their teacher Ann Duane and with guidance from scientists and editors the Year 4 students of St Joseph's School North Ward in Townsville created the mixed genre story as they researched and studied marine topics as part of their school curriculum.