ELMONT MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
MARINE SCIENCE
MARINE ANIMAL RESEARCH PAPER
GENERAL INFORMATION
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You are responsible for writing a research paper over the next 7 weeks on an animal that lives in or near
the water. The purpose in doing this research paper is to broaden your knowledge on some important
science issues that are affecting our society today.
You will be taken to the library in order to search for a topic and information on that topic.
At the Library: Finding a Topic/Information
 While at the library, you will use primarily encyclopedias to research your topic.
REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR PAPER:
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5 to 6 pages in length, double spaced, 1-inch margins, and 12-14 point fonts
Introduction, Body, and Conclusion
o Introduction should include: What the species is
o Body should include:
 Scientific Name
 Characteristics
 Body Shape
 Birth
 Swimming
 Circulation
 Senses
 Respiration
 Diving
 How long do they live
 Reproduction
 How do they locate food?
 What type of social life?
 Research?
 Did you know fact (Something interesting about your species)
 Are they endangered or threatened
 Is there any type of protection of these species
o Conclusion should include: An ending summary of your topic and findings
Sources
o You must have a minimum of 4 sources/references
o You must cite your sources
o If your sources come from the Internet, they must be credible websites: either
national/professional organization, government, or academic program at a university only!
DEADLINES:
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February 11, 2013: 4 Sources/references with 5 note cards on each article due – these must be in MLA
format (worth a test grade)
February 21, 2013: Research outline due (worth a test grade)
March 20, 2013: Final research paper due (worth 20% of your quarter grade)
MARINE ANIMALS
Baleen Whale
Beluga Whale
Blue Whale
Dolphins
Killer Whale
Pilot Whale
Humpback Whale
Walrus
Harbour Seals
Loggerhead Turtle
Leatherneck Turtle
Sea Otter
Polar Bears
Seals
Sea Lion
Adelie Penguin
King Penguin
Emperor Penguin
Parrott fish
Blue Marlin
Tuna
Angler Fish
Octopus
Squid
Cuttlefish
Manatee
Great White Shark
Tiger Shark
Hammerhead Shark
Reef Shark
Whale Shark
Manta Ray
Sting Ray