Introduction
A lesson on overfishing can be both engaging and educational; students will understand the causes, effects, and possible solutions to overfishing in the Mediterranean Sea. They will also develop skills in research, critical thinking, creative writing and presentation.
Task
In this WebQuest you will:
1. learn about the issue of overfishing in the Mediterranean Sea, its causes, consequences and potential solutions.
2. practice Vocabulary related to marine biology and environmental science( local economies-global food supplies), report/article writing, persuasive language.
3. develop research, critical thinking, reading comprehension, speaking, writing, listening, presentation, creative writing and collaboration skills.
Process
Step 1: Overfishing: what is it and Why is it such a big problem? What is Bycatch and its dangers, strengthen the management of fisheries.
The video explains overfishing: the faster rate that fish are being caught than they can multiply and naturally repopulate. It refers to modern fishing gear/technology, growing global population and increased demand of sea food are the causes. Some of the consequences: it damages food web , fishing-down- the food web creates imbalance, harms eco-systems i.e. coral reef when algae overgrow, bycatch victims i.e. dolphins, turtles, sustainable fishing techniques.
- Causes of overfishing.
- Ecological impacts of overfishing.
- Economic and social consequences.
- Current measures and regulations to combat overfishing.
Video summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WKdsmDUABi4Gg-XznnzmhvGy7-sFS6KWrTldrjiW4Gw/edit?usp=sharing
Groupwork (optional). The class can be divided into small groups each focusing on the following
Guiding Questions: Provide each group with a set of questions to guide their research.
- What are the primary causes of overfishing in the Mediterranean Sea?
- How does overfishing affect marine ecosystems and biodiversity?
- What are the economic impacts on local communities?
- What regulations are currently in place, and how effective are they?
- What can be done to mitigate the effects of overfishing
The video stimulates students' critical thinking to overfishing and the side effects to an environmental/sociocultural level.
Step 2: Watch the following video
- Find out how small scale fishermen in Mediterranean countries are finding new ways to face up environmental and economic challenges.
Video summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TKl-tWQq8wjGsVNLtEQ3ihnMepGd21KRq4vMBn3jH3E/edit?tab=t.0
- Make a post on Padlet answering to the question: 'What can individuals, communities do to combat overfishing?'
Step 3: The state of Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries
In order to forge the path of sustainability the key is to adopt and reiforce management measures for the conservation of specific stocks and deep sea ecosystems. It focuses on:
- Accelerated reduction of Fishing pressure.
- Common sole, turbot, european hake all key species under management plans.
- concerted efforts towards a sustainable future.
Watch the following video:
Video summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OBsneWs6-4CgiUqqEj1Wmxy9XxTXtSdDuSJK780XCxI/edit?tab=t.0
Step 4: Creative writing
If you were a marine animal or a fisherman; write a diary entry to the Twinboard, the day to day happenings of your life, thoughts and feelings.
Evaluation
- Webquest evaluation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqiPYqjJnVCY1xAQH2c0je-o7E14kcy0O-yIBsCY0ymLoeww/viewform?usp=header
- Students evaluation: data collected from the answers on the padlet and the Twinboard and also the following rubric:
|
Criteria |
5 - Excellent |
4 - Good |
3 - Satisfactory |
2 - Needs Improvement |
1 - Poor |
|
Understanding of Overfishing |
Thoroughly explains overfishing, including causes, ecological, economic, and social impacts with examples. |
Clearly explains overfishing with most causes and impacts mentioned but lacks some detail or examples. |
Provides a general explanation of overfishing with limited detail or some inaccuracies. |
Shows minimal understanding of overfishing; major details or impacts are missing or incorrect. |
Explanation is unclear or largely incorrect with little to no understanding demonstrated. |
|
Explanation of Bycatch & Dangers |
Clearly defines bycatch and thoroughly explains its ecological dangers with relevant examples. |
Defines bycatch and explains its dangers but with limited examples or some minor inaccuracies. |
Provides a basic definition of bycatch with some explanation of dangers, but lacks depth or clarity. |
Mentions bycatch but explanation is incomplete, unclear, or mostly inaccurate. |
Does not address bycatch or explanation is incorrect or missing. |
|
Fisheries Management & Solutions |
Provides detailed description of current management measures, regulations, and proposes realistic solutions. |
Describes management measures and regulations with some suggestions for solutions, though not detailed. |
Mentions some management measures or regulations but lacks explanation or practical solutions. |
Provides minimal or unclear information about management or solutions. |
No mention or incorrect information about management or solutions. |
|
Research & Critical Thinking |
Demonstrates insightful responses to all guiding questions with strong critical thinking and evidence. |
Responds appropriately to most guiding questions with some critical thinking and relevant evidence. |
Answers some guiding questions with limited critical thinking and evidence. |
Provides incomplete or superficial answers with little critical thinking or evidence. |
Fails to address guiding questions or shows no evidence of critical thinking. |
|
Creativity & Engagement in Diary Entry |
Diary entry is highly creative with vivid descriptions, emotions, and clear connection to overfishing issues. |
Diary entry is creative with good descriptions and emotions, showing understanding of overfishing impact. |
Diary entry shows some creativity and understanding but lacks detail or emotional connection. |
Diary entry is minimal, unclear, or shows limited understanding or creativity. |
Diary entry is missing, off-topic, or shows no understanding or effort. |
Conclusion
Through this WebQuest studetns have explored the critical issue of overfishing, the severe consequences, including the decline of fish populations, damage to coral reefs and the loss of livelihoods for millions of people who depend on fishing. Also, possible solutions to address overfishing include sustainable fishing practices, stricter regulations and the development of fishing gear that minimizes bycatch. Last but not least, getting to know pescatourism supported by EU and WWFprogrammes; how to empower small scale fishers to face rising economic and environmental challenges.
Credits
Teacher Page
This WebQuest was edited by a teacher of 2o Esperino EPAL Acharnon (Greece) as part of the activities of the "Mediterranean Diet for Overall Health" (MedDiet4Health) Erasmus+ project (Project number: 2023-2-EL01-KA210-VET-000183592).
In this WebQuest, students build vocational skills for future careers in Food Technology and Nutrition by exploring sustainability, marine biodiversity and the economic and social impacts of overfishing. They develop problem-solving and innovation by proposing solutions, learn about responsible fishing practices and pescatourism and strengthen their research and analytical abilities. At the same time, they practice all four English language skills- listening, speaking, reading and writing- through real-world tasks that enhance critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, presentation and digital competence. In doing so, learners are empowered to face future career challenges with confidence.
This WebQuest reflects only the author’s views. The European Commission’s support for the production of this WebQuest does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.