Little Explorers Unit Study: Eugenie Clark - The Shark Lady
Introduce your young learners to the fascinating world of marine biology and one of its most inspiring figures, Eugenie Clark—the "Shark Lady"! This fun, flexible, and hands-on unit study is perfect for Pre-K through 2nd grade and offers everything you need to dive into a week-long (or longer!) exploration of sharks, ocean zones, and the life of a real-world scientist.
Part of the Little Explorers Series
This is the third unit in the “Little Explorers” series, which highlights real-life adventurers and scientists who made exciting discoveries—without tying into colonization themes. Each unit includes its own special Explorer Badge so your learners can celebrate their achievements!
Created by a Homeschool Mom, for Homeschoolers
As a homeschool graduate and current homeschool mom, I know the value of flexible, engaging, and educational resources. This unit is designed with homeschoolers, co-ops, and early elementary classrooms in mind.
What's Included:
✅ Suggested Weekly Schedule
✅ Short Biography of Eugenie Clark
✅ Vocabulary Word List + Definitions
✅ “I Can Be an Ocean Explorer!” Shark Flashcards
✅ Ocean Sensory Bin Ideas + Printable Label
✅ Ocean Layers (Zones) Info Sheet
✅ Cut & Paste Ocean Zones Activity (Color and B&W versions)
✅ Ocean Playdough Mat
✅ Letter “S” Tracing & Activity Sheet
✅ Copywork Sheet (Print)
✅ Ocean Explorer Badge for Eugenie Clark
✅ List of Additional Resource Suggestions (Books, Videos, etc.)
Learning Objectives:
Discover the story of Eugenie Clark, a pioneering female scientist
Learn about sharks, their diversity, and why they're important
Explore the layers of the ocean and who lives in each one
Practice fine motor skills with cut-and-paste and craft activities
Build literacy with vocabulary, copywork, and tracing sheets
Encourage sensory play and imaginative learning
✨ Great For:
Homeschool Units
Kindergarten & 1st/2nd Grade Science Centers
Ocean-Themed Weeks
Co-op Classes
Summer Enrichment
Unit Study Fridays
Want more World Changers? Check out the other units in the series like George Washington Carver, Harriet Tubman and Benjamin Franklin! Each one introduces young learners to brave, curious people who explored the world in meaningful and inspiring ways.
Let’s dive in and explore the ocean—one discovery at a time!