From Florida’s coastline natives to underwater creatures from around the world, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) invites students of all ages to dive into aquatic adventures. Mote’s marine laboratory, with over 70 years of marine science, offers engaging exhibits and programs designed to spark curiosity and confidence in educators and students alike. Learn about what dwells beyond Florida’s coast and get a glimpse of science in action. With a calendar packed with exciting events and educational programs, there is always something new to discover.
Educational Field Trips
Mote SEA field trips offer educator-led experiences that let students get hands-on with their science lessons. Through their three themed teaching labs—each with its own age-specific learning—students receive in-depth lessons and activities over a two-hour lab. During their Marine Ecology lab, students learn about Florida’s coastal habitats and Mote’s active research on science and restoration in the local area. Biomedical & Immunology explores marine life health and wellness, including disease resistance, immune health, and bioactive compounds from marine microbes. Ocean Technology examines innovation in the field and the tools that make marine science possible.
All of Mote SEA’s field trips provide curriculum-based learning that aligns with Florida State Science Standards. Their lesson plans are broken down by grade level, with curriculum and learning outcomes tailored to each group. First graders will learn about marine ecology through seagrass and efforts to protect it, while eighth graders will engage in real-life restoration by studying Caribbean king crabs. 3rd graders will learn about biomedical science and immunology by exploring the marine food web and how toxins move through it, while 12th graders will learn about conservation efforts and aquaculture. Pre-K students are invited to help design add-ons for important marine technology, while 8th graders learn about ocean technology through a tagging and tracking exercise.
Student Programs
Bring Mote SEA learning to your school with their outreach programs. Designed to create an inquiry-based, engaging experience in the classroom. Mote educators will deliver a 45-minute comprehensive lesson on one or more of their many available programs. The aquarium also offers a variety of special programs and tours. Check out their behind-the-scenes tour, which takes visitors on an exclusive trip to where the magic happens—perfect for ocean lovers curious about the science and conservation efforts happening here. Explore Sarasota Bay via kayak and learn about marine science in a unique setting. Or take an eco-friendly boat tour led by knowledgeable marine biologists who can point out all the fun, interesting, and educational spots around the bay.
Mote SEA also offers free teacher resources — including classroom kits, lesson plans, videos, labs, games, and more — perfect for keeping students engaged with the fun side of science long after their trip to the aquarium.
