Classroom Tools
Hawaiian Leis
Hawaii was one of many locations connected to New Bedford through whaling voyages. A Lei is a traditional garland from Hawaii that is used to represent a variety of events and celebrations in someone’s life...
Eat Like a Whale
In this activity you will explore which feeding style is most effective at gathering zooplankton (seasoning) and which is most effective for gathering fish and squid (carrot or apple chunks)...
See Like a Whale
Whales' eyes are on the sides of their heads. Each eye sees a separate view. This type of vision is called monocular vision. In this activity, you will find out what it's like to have monocular vision.
How Whales Stay Warm
Whales are warm-blooded mammals that can survive in water temperatures as frigid as the low 40s F. How do they manage to stay warm, even in the ice-cold waters of the Atlantic?
How Big are Whales?
Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) range in size and there are 88 species in all. This activity will help you explore the variety of sizes in this group of aquatic mammals.
How Whales Hear
This simple activity will give you a sense of what it is like to receive sound in a way similar to these marine mammals...
Make a Logbook
During Whaling voyages, logbooks were used to record the daily activities of life at sea. It was used to track many things, including the date, weather, and whale sightings.
Sailors' Valentines
Sailors would spend many months, even years, away from home. On their journeys, they often made or purchased Sailors’ Valentines. They were meant to be gifts for their loved ones. Learn to make one here!
Scrimshaw Art
Scrimshaw was an art form used to help whalers pass the time on long voyages. Try creating your own scrimshaw designs!
Ocean Beats
Participate in the Ocean Beat project by listening to the marine mammal sounds linked on this site or directly in the Watkins collection, then, use them as inspiration to mix a whole new sound.
Creature Feature
Explore amazing marine animals in this video and activity series – a different creature each week!
