Ocean Literacy

Ocean literacy is an understanding of the ocean’s influence on you—and your influence on the ocean.

An ocean-literate person:

1. understands the Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts about the functioning of the ocean;
2. can communicate about the oceanin a meaningful way; and
3. is able to make informed and responsible decisions regarding the ocean and its resources.

Developed through a community-wide consensus-building process, this definition along with the Essential Principles and supporting Fundamental Concepts build on previous efforts to define ocean literacy, assess what the public knows about the ocean, and redress the lack of ocean-related content in state and national science education standards, instructional materials and assessments.

Ocean Literacy Principles

Ocean Literacy Principle #1
The Earth has one big ocean with many features.

Ocean Literacy Principle #2
The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth.

Ocean Literacy Principle #3
The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.

Ocean Literacy Principle #4
The ocean makes the Earth habitable.

Ocean Literacy Principle #5
The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.

Ocean Literacy Principle #6
The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.

Ocean Literacy Principle #7
The ocean is largely unexplored.