This curriculum guide describes an activity-oriented marine study program, designed for use with middle school children (grade 5). The content focuses primarily upon the life sciences, with some emphasis on chemistry and geology. Following the development of a rationale for the inclusion of marine sciences in the school curriculum, a middle school/marine science educational philosophy is presented. The basis for the selection of marine science education topics is detailed. Lesson topics include: marine biology, fish adaptations, studies in unusual fish, commercial and soft-bone fish, marine geophysics, reptiles and mammals of the sea, waterfowl, conchology, algae, cephalapods, and crustaceans. Objectives are specified and concepts identified for each topic. Several individualized student learning packets are described. Sections on water pollution and chemical ocean studies conclude this guide. (BT)