National Geographic Instructor Guide

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2004 Edition

PADI

National GeographicDiverInstructor Guide


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PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide Introduction

2

PADI

National GeographicDiver

Instructor Guide

PADI 2005

2004 National Geographic Society

National Geographic and Yellow Border are registered trademarks of National Geographic Society.

All rights reserved

Portions of the Appendix of this guide may be reproduced by PADI Members

for use in PADI-sanctioned training, but not for resale or personal gain.

No other reproduction is allowed without the express written permission of PADI.

Published by

PADI Americas, Inc.

30151 Tomas Street

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688-2125

Printed in U.S.A.

Product No. 70258 (12/05) Version 1.02Cover photo by Sara Shoemaker Lind.


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Introduction PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide

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Table of Contents

Introduction5

Program Standards

Prerequisites 6

Certification Requirements 7

Ratios 8

Supervision 8

Site, Depths and Hours 9

Training Materials and Equipment 9

Course Links 10

Referrals 10

Certification Procedures 12

Recommended Techniques and

Training Considerations

Hovering 13

Exploration Project 14

Navigation 17

Aquatic Life Identification 18

Specialty Dive Course Skills 19

and Performance Requirements

Appendix 21

National Geographic Diver Referral Record 23

PADI Open Water Diver Course Record and Referral Form 24

National Geographic Diver Almanac Knowledge Review 25

National Geographic Diver Almanac Knowledge Review 26Answer Key


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Introduction PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide

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Introduction

Who are National Geographic Divers?National Geographic Divers are adventurers, explorers, and conservationists.

National Geographic Divers have an interest in scuba diving and underwater sci-ences that goes beyond that of the average diver. These divers have a historical

perspective of humankinds relationship with

the underwater world based on their interaction

with PADI and National Geographic resources.

Their study of National Geographics and

PADIs mission and values have provided them

with an understanding of the importance of the

aquatic realm and their role in preserving the

resource for current and future generations.

In addition to their knowledge,

National Geographic Divers have demonstratedskills and completed underwater tasks that

broaden their awareness while scuba diving.

Higher buoyancy skill mastery than required

of a PADI Open Water Diver fine-tunes their

ability to interact appropriately with aquatic

creatures and underwater structures. Excellent

buoyancy control is also a foundational skill for

specialty diving activities such as underwater

photography and videography. Practicing infor-

mation-gathering techniques and heightening

navigation skills further increases their abilityto explore and take critical note of each dive

site they choose to visit. Their enhanced knowl-

edge and skill level makes National Geographic

Divers true stewards and ambassadors for the

underwater world.


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PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide Program Standards

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OverviewThere are two ways that individuals can become National Geographic Divers. At

PADI National Geographic Dive Centers, people who do not already have a diver

certification may enroll in the National Geographic Diver program. This program

covers all the knowledge and skills from the PADI Open Water Diver course to the

additional information and requirements for National Geographic Diver certifica-

tion.

Individuals who already hold a qualifying entry-level scuba certifica-

tion (or higher level certification) may enroll in the National Geographic Diver

Specialty course conducted at PADI National Geographic Dive Centers. During

this program, divers gain additional knowledge by studying with PADI National

Geographic materials and also complete the skill performance requirements underthe guidance of a PADI Instructor.

Program StandardsPrerequisitesEntry-level

To enroll in a complete National Geographic Diver program, an indi-

vidual must be at least 10 years old. There are no prerequisite experience

requirements.Course participants (and parents/guardians when appro-

priate) must also complete all documents required for enrollment in a

PADI Open Water Diver course.

Divers who are 15 years old and older earn the National Geographic

Diver certification. Divers who are between 10 and 14 years old earn the Junior

National Geographic Diver certification, which carries the same restrictions as the

PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification based on the divers age.

Specialty CourseTo enroll in the National Geographic Diver Specialty course, an indi-

vidual must be at least 10 years old and hold a qualifying entry-level

scuba certification or higher level diver certification.


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Program Standards PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide

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Certification RequirementsEntry-level

To earn a National Geographic Diver certification, an individual must:

1. Complete all knowledge development, confined water, and open

water performance requirements contained in the PADI Open

Water Diver course.

2. Complete the National Geographic Knowledge Review based on

information gained from theNational Geographic Diver Almanacand

DVD.

3. Complete at least five open water

training dives, fulfilling all PADI

Open Water Diver skill require-

ments and the following National

Geographic Diver skill requirements:

Demonstrate the ability to

hover in these three positions:

horizontal, feet slightly elevat-

ed, and head slightly elevated.

Complete the Exploration

Project that includes gather-

ing information and/or images and creating a visual repre-

sentation of the dive site detailing specific features. This may

result in a sketch, diagram, graph, photo-essay, or video (More on this in

Recommended Techniques).

Complete one of the following:

a. Navigate a square or rectangular pattern using bothcompass headings and natural references to return to the

starting point.

b. Locate and identify by name at least two aquatic plants

(one for freshwater), four aquatic invertebrate animals

(one for freshwater), and five aquatic vertebrate animals

(two for freshwater).

Specialty CourseTo earn a National Geographic Diver Specialty certification, an

individual must:

1. Complete the National Geographic Knowledge Review based on

information gained from theNational Geographic Diver Almanacand

DVD.

2. Complete at least two open water training dives, demonstrating

proficiency with all National Geographic Specialty course dive skill

and performance requirements.(SeeSpecialty Course Dive Skills and

Performance Requirements for details.)

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RatiosMaximum in-water student diver-to-instructor ratios are the same as

those for the PADI Open Water Diver course:

Confined water 10:1, with a certified assistant required for every

four additional student divers.

Confined open water for 10 and 11yearolds 4:1, with no morethan two children age 1011 included in a group of four student

divers.

Open water dives 8:1, with a certified assistant for each two

additional student divers, to a maximum of 12 student divers.

Open water dives for 10 and 11yearolds 4:1, with no more

than two children age 1011 included in a group of four student

divers.

These ratios are maximums. It is often appropriate to use judgment and lower

ratios depending on a variety of factors that affect diver safety, control, and enjoy-

ment.

SupervisionA Teaching status PADI Instructor working through a PADI National

Geographic Dive Center must be present and in control of all activities

during the National Geographic Diver program or National Geographic

Diver Specialty course. A Teaching status PADI Instructor must com-

plete all skill evaluations.

If student divers will complete National Geographic Diver

requirements during Open Water Diver course training dives, divers

must remain under the direct supervision of a Teaching status PADI

Instructor or certified assistant as permitted in the Open Water Diver

Course Instructor Guide.

For certified divers enrolled in the National Geographic Diver Specialty

course, requirements have varied supervision options:

Hovering direct supervision and evaluation by the PADI Instructor is

required.

Exploration Project indirect supervision allowed. Its recommended that the

instructor or certified assistant check in with divers during the dive and be read-

ily available to answer questions or provide guidance; however, continuous direct

supervision is not necessary.

Navigation exercise indirect supervision allowed. Its recommended that a certi-

fied assistant accompany divers while the instructor observes navigation pattern

from the surface.

Aquatic plant/animal identification indirect supervision allowed. Its recommend-

ed that the instructor or certified assistant check on diver progress during the dive

and be readily available to answer questions or provide guidance as necessary.


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Site, Depths and HoursChoose dive sites with conditions and environmental features suitable for complet-

ing National Geographic Diver requirements. Shallower dives will provide divers

with more time to complete requirements.

Maximum planned depth must not exceed the divers current training

level, experience, or age-related limitations: Open Water Divers or student divers 18 metres/60 feet

10 and 11yearold Junior Divers 12 metres/40 feet

Advanced Open Water Divers (or higher) 30 metres/100 feet

12 to 14yearold Junior Advanced Open Water Divers 21

metres/70 feet

All dives must take place during daylight hours. Student divers may par-

ticipate in a maximum of three open water scuba dives in a single day.

The maximum depth for the third dive of the day is 12 metres/40 feet.

Training Materials and EquipmentPADI Instructors must have and use a National Geographic Diver

Program Instructor Guide.Its also recommended that instructors have their

own National Geographic Diver DVD and National

Geographic Diver Almanac.

Individuals enrolled in the National

Geographic Diver program must have and

use their own personal National Geographic

Diver Crew-Pak.This Crew-Pak includes a PADI

Open Water Diver Manual,RDP table, National

Geographic Diver DVD, National Geographic DiverAlmanac,PADI Adventure Log, and PADI/National

Geographic binder.

National Geographic Diver Specialty

course participants must have and use their

own personal National Geographic Diver Specialty course materials.This

includes a National Geographic Diver DVD and National Geographic Diver Almanac.

In addition to all required dive equipment (listed in the General Standards

and Procedures section of the PADIInstructor Manual), National Geographic Diver

program participants will benefit from having the following items during dives:

Slate and pencil

Compass

Local fish or aquatic life cards

Dive light

Camera (photography or video)

Based on the focus of the divers Exploration Project, PADI Instructors should con-

sider having the following equipment available, in addition to standard equipment

required for training dives:

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Line and reel

Measuring device

Marker buoys

(See Recommended Techniquesfor additional suggestions.)

Course LinksNational Geographic Divers, both entry-level and specialty divers, may credit theirexperience toward the PADI Adventures in Diving program and Master Scuba

Diver rating. At the instructor's discretion, entry-level divers may be credited with

completing an Adventure Dive toward either a PADI Adventure Diver or Advanced

Open Water Diver certification. They may also be credited with having one PADI

Specialty Diver certification toward the five required for

the Master Scuba Diver rating.

For divers enrolled in a National

Geographic Diver Specialty course, the first dive may

credit as an Adventure Dive toward either a PADI

Adventure Diver or Advanced Open Water Diver cer-

tification. To credit as an Adventure Dive, the

National Geographic Adventure Dive must not be

integrated with any other Adventure Dive. The

National Geographic Diver specialty certification also

credits toward the Master Scuba Diver rating.

ReferralsSimilar to other PADI diver courses and programs, the

National Geographic Diver program and National

Geographic Diver Specialty course have referral pro-

cedures that allow student divers who begin training in one location to travel to

another location to complete training. However, because National Geographic

Diver certification may only occur through PADI National Geographic Dive

Centers, these procedures differ slightly from PADI Open Water Diver course refer-

rals or PADI continuing education program referral procedures.

Keep in mind that it is the responsibility of the PADI Instructor receiving

a referred student diver to ensure that the diver is adequately prepared to partici-

pate in the next training step.

From PADI National Geographic Dive Center to PADI NationalGeographic Dive Center

National Geographic Diver program Follow student referral procedures

as listed in the Open Water Diver Course Instructor Guide. This includes issuing

a PADI Open Water Diver Referral Record to the student diver documenting any

completed training. Also issue a National Geographic Diver Referral Record (see

Appendix) to the diver indicating any National Geographic Diver requirements

completed.


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When receiving a referred student diver enrolled in a

National Geographic Diver program, complete necessary train-

ing as indicated on the Open Water Diver Referral Record and

on the National Geographic Diver Referral Record. When all

requirements are complete, issue a National Geographic Diver

certification.

National Geographic Diver Specialty course Issue a

National Geographic Diver Referral Record to the diver docu-

menting any completed requirements.

When receiving a referred diver enrolled in a National

Geographic Diver Specialty course, complete necessary train-

ing as indicated on the National Geographic Diver Referral

Record. Issue a National Geographic Diver certification when

all requirements are complete.

From PADI National Geographic Dive Center toPADI Dive Center/Resort

National Geographic Diver program Student div-

ers may only earn the National Geographic Diver certifica-

tion through a PADI National Geographic Dive Center. PADI

Instructors unaffiliated with a PADI National Geographic Dive

Center may complete the requirements for the PADI Open

Water Diver certification, but cannot complete the requirements for the National

Geographic Diver certification. Follow student referral procedures as listed in the

Open Water Diver Course Instructor Guide. This includes issuing a PADI Open

Water Diver Referral Record to the student diver documenting any completed

training.

Explain that the student diver must return to the PADI National

Geographic Dive Center to complete the National Geographic Diver requirements.

National Geographic Diver Specialty course No referral allowed.

Completing any National Geographic Diver certification requirements is not pos-

sible at non-PADI National Geographic Dive Centers.

From Dive Center/Resort to PADI National GeographicDive Center

PADI Open Water Diver course students (or any entry-level student diver) referred

to PADI National Geographic Dive Centers may choose to only complete Open

Water Diver certification requirements. Follow student referral procedures as listed

in the Open Water Diver Course Instructor Guide and complete necessary training

as indicated on the Open Water Diver Referral Record (or referral documentation).

If referred divers want to earn the National Geographic Diver certification, enroll

them in the National Geographic Diver Specialty course. This includes having

them study with National Geographic Diver Specialty course materials and com-

pleting National Geographic Diver requirements during training dives. Issue a

National Geographic Diver certification when all requirements are complete.

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PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide Techniques and Training

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Certification ProceduresThe PADI Instructor, working through a PADI National Geographic

Dive Center, who conducts the students final open water dive, certifies

the diver as a National Geographic Diver. The instructor certifying the

diver must ensure that the diver meets all certification requirements.

To obtain a certification card for a diver, correctly indicate on the PICthat it is for a National Geographic Diver rating and submit the signed PIC to the

appropriate PADI Office. National Geographic Divers receive a distinctive certifica-

tion card.

Explain that divers may also enclose a donation to Project AWARE when

they submit the PIC for their National Geographic Diver card.

Recommended Techniques

and Training ConsiderationsEntry-level

National Geographic Diver requirements are best completed during the fifth

required dive or additional dives beyond those required for PADI Open Water

Diver certification. This dive (or dives) enhances the experience by allowing ade-

quate time to really focus on the dive requirements. It promotes diver comfort and

avoids task loading, especially for new divers.

The open water dive requirements may integrated as additional skills dur-

ing Open Water Dives 3 and 4 when small class size and optimal dive conditions

make this possible. Keep in mind that all requirements are performance based;

thus, additional dives may be required for divers to master all Open Water Diver

course and National Geographic Diver skills.

Specialty Course

Divers participating in the National Geographic Diver Specialty course com-

plete dive requirements during at least

two open water dives. (See Specialty

Course Dive Skills and Performance

Requirements for details.) However, mul-

tiple dives may be desirable based on

the location and the amount of infor-

mation divers choose to include in theirExploration Project. Consider scheduling

a confined water dive to allow divers to

practice buoyancy skills and better pre-

pare for their open water adventure.


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Techniques and Training PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide

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HoveringFor divers enrolled in an entry-level National Geographic Diver program, intro-

duce and have divers practice the various hovering

positions after first introducing hovering during

Confined Water Dive Four. As mentioned, consider

conducting a confined water dive or buoyancy clinic

for divers who are already certified.

Its recommended that you conduct hovering

practice before the Exploration Project, navigation

exercise, or aquatic life identification skills. This

reinforces the need for good buoyancy control while

exploring underwater.

1. Explain the value of being able to hover in dif-

ferent positions. Hovering horizontally helps

divers stop while swimming over a fragile bot-

tom to observe what is below. Hovering with

feet slightly elevated allows divers to peer intocrevices without touching the sides. Hovering with head slightly elevated is a

comfortable position to look at the aquatic life along a wall or piling.

2. Discuss the need for proper weight balance and placement. Have divers

adjust their weights to help them hover more efficiently.

3. Encourage divers to begin with a fin pivot. Emphasize the use of breath con-

trol to make minor depth adjustments.

4. Allow divers to practice hovering in different positions making adjustments

and corrections as necessary to meet performance requirements.

a. To hover horizontally, remind divers to keep their hands in close totheir body and to point their toes to better control their leg position.

b. To hover feet slightly elevated, remind divers that any air in the top of

their BCDs needs to shift to the bottom. Sometimes this requires start-

ing by kicking down slightly to shift into a head lower position. Again,

pointing toes helps to better control leg position.

c. To hover head slightly elevated, encourage divers to arch their back

slightly to keep their chest high and also point their toes for better con-

trol.

5. For fun and to emphasize practical application:

a. Stretch a line about a metre/several feet off the bottom to use as a refer-

ence for divers while hovering. Make a game of who can get closest to

the line without touching it while hovering in the three different posi-

tions.

b. Have disposable cameras available for divers to take photos of each

other while hovering in different positions. Emphasize the need to get

close without touching the other diver.

6. If possible during open water dives, point out places where each hovering

technique may be useful. Although not required, its beneficial to show divers

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how to use buoyancy control to maneu-

ver close to an object without touching it

then back away using fin sculling.

7. As time allows during a confined water

session or open water dive, also consider

demonstrating useful propulsion tech-

niques, such as a modified flutter kick,

frog kick, and pull (nonliving object)

and glide. Explain how these techniques

may help divers maneuver in certain

circumstances and avoid harming fragile

aquatic creatures.

Exploration ProjectBecause exploration and underwater sciences encompass a wide range of physi-

cal and biological disciplines, there are many options for completing this perfor-

mance requirement based on diver interests and dive site features. The intent of

this performance requirement is to encourage exploration and broaden awareness

by having divers really focus on unique or interesting aspects of the dive site. This

could include, but is not limited to, the sites animal life, plant life, topography,

geology, human-made structures, or water temperature variations. Through this

exercise, divers are required not only to observe dive site features but also to gath-

er data and record what they studied by producing a visual representation.

Meeting this performance requirement could be as simple as examining

a single coral head and sketching its structure on a slate along with its resident

creatures. After the dive, student divers further refine their sketch by identifying as

many details as possible, then copy it onto paper to turn in as their Exploration

Project.

Meeting this performance requirement could also be as elaborate as pro-

ducing a video of the dive site. For novice divers, their Exploration Project may

include simply replaying the video and describing what they saw. For more expe-

rienced divers and videographers, the Exploration Project could include an edited

video complete with narration and on-screen captions detailing their exploration

of the dive site. This approach may involve many divers and take several dives to

plan and videotape, plus more time after the dives to edit the final piece.

Your role is to excite divers about the possibilities and then together

decide on the most worthwhile and practical approach to meeting this require-

ment. Novice divers may find a few measurements and a sketch challenging

and fascinating enough. Experienced divers may be prepared to take on the task

of creating a photo-essay of the site or documenting the archaeological aspects

of a wreck. Again, the purpose of this requirement is to inspire exploration and

increase diver awareness. By collecting copies of these visual representations,

youll develop a great library of dive site descriptions and examples to show future

National Geographic Divers.

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To organize this exercise with divers:

1. Decide what aspect of the dive site will be the focus of their Exploration

Project. Consider choosing a site familiar to the divers.

a. Encourage divers to gather as much background information as possi-

ble before the dive to help them identify animals, plants, and other fea-

tures while underwater. Show them maps, photos, or videos producedby other National Geographic Divers or PADI Divemasters to help fur-

ther orient them to the site.

b. If combining this performance requirement with the navigation

exercise, describe how the navigated square/rectangle, or a portion of

the navigated course, will become the study area. Introduce techniques

(flags, grid, marker buoys) for visually defining the area.

2. Discuss which media they will use to create their final Exploration Project.

3. Form a dive plan that allows them to collect the data or images they need to

create a complete visual representation. If this will be a group project, decide

who will be responsible for which areas or aspects of data collection.

4. Organize any equipment (slates, measuring devices, cameras, line, marker

buoys, thermometers, etc.) necessary to complete the project. Remind divers

that their depth gauges can be useful measur-

ing tools for determining an objects height.

5. If appropriate, walk through the plan on land

and practice the more technical aspects.

6. Discuss how the Exploration Project will be

completed. Make sure divers know where to

find references and resources to add detail to

their projects.

Exploration Project options (choose one orcombine several options):

1. Sketch a feature or defined area of a dive site

on a slate coral head or reef, artificial struc-

ture, wreck, rock formation, etc.

2. Survey an area noting all unnatural disturbances (anchor damage, etc.) as

well as the location and type of garbage to create a graphic environmental

assessment. (Be sure to remove trash as appropriate.)

3. Conduct a fish (invertebrate, mammal, creature) count over a specified area

and create a graph showing the numbers and types of species observed.

4. Place a grid over an area (wreck, reef, rock formation, etc.) and assign divers

to sketch/photograph specific squares. Encourage divers to note details about

the creatures and objects in their assigned area on their slate.

5. Map a defined area on a slate recording depth, measuring object placement

and recording aquatic life found.

6. Using a depth gauge and thermometer, take and record temperature read-


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ings from the surface down to depth at various locations of a dive site to cre-

ate a graph charting changes. (Must be a dive site where temperature varies

enough to be interesting.)

7. Photograph all aspects of a defined area from surface

to bottom and side to side to create a photo collage.

8. Photograph the same area (fairly active part of the

dive site) over a specified time to create a photo-essay

showing changes in creature behavior and movement.

9. Photograph as many different species of aquatic

life as possible at the site and create a photo-essay

describing the areas biodiversity.

10. Photograph as many different individuals of one spe-

cies (fish, shells, shrimp, crabs, coral, plants, etc.) as

possible at the site and create a photo-essay pointing

out physical, behavioral, and habitat differences.

11. Photograph all unnatural disturbances (anchor dam-

age, etc.) as well as the location and type of garbage

to create a graphic environmental

assessment.

12. Videotape all aspects of a defined area from surface to

bottom and side to side, then edit into a complete tour

of the site.

13. Videotape an area (fairly active part of the dive site) and identify the

creatures. Describe their behavior and movement.

14. Videotape as many different species of aquatic life as possible at the site and

create a video showing behavior, interaction, and the areas

biodiversity.

15. Videotape as many different individuals of one species (fish, shells, shrimp,

coral, plants, etc.) as possible at the site and describe the physical,

behavioral, and habitat differences.

16. Script and shoot a video following a diver around a dive site pointing out key

features and interacting appropriately with creatures and structures.

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NavigationPrecise navigation using a compass is a fun challenge for all divers. Combining

compass navigation with keen observation skills increases a National Geographic

Divers awareness and builds confidence for the future. The intent of this skill is

not to create expert navigators, but to challenge and inspire divers to continue to

improve their navigation skills. Good underwater navigation is the key to enjoy-able diving adventures and a necessary tool for every aquatic explorer.

As mentioned, you may integrate it with the Exploration Project to help

define observation boundaries.

1. With divers, plan the headings for swimming a square or rectangular pat-

tern. Discuss how many kick cycles to swim for each leg (10 to 20 recom-

mended). Its a good idea to have divers walk through the pattern on land to

give them more familiarity with their compass.

2. Discuss what features of the dive site may provide natural navigation assis-

tance. Encourage divers to pay attention to water movement, bottom features

such as sand ripples, large objects or formations, and the orientation of cer-

tain plants or animals. Explain that depth changes and the sun angle mayalso provide natural navigation clues.

3. During the dive, have buddy teams begin at a fixed (marked if appropriate)

point. One buddy navigates with the compass and notes natural navigation

clues along the way while the other buddy counts kick cycles.

4. At the conclusion of each leg, have teams turn 90

(consistently right or left) for the appropriate number

of kick cycles. After three turns, the teams should be

close to the starting point.

5. Have the buddy team switch roles and complete the

exercise again. Repeat the exercise until divers meetthe performance requirement.

Depending on the groups skill level, you may choose to

make this skill more challenging by:

Placing small objects at each corner of the pat-

tern that divers need to collect before starting the

next leg. Make a game of this by using

plastic-coated playing cards or puzzle pieces. Divers need to find specific

cards or pieces to get a good hand or complete a puzzle.

Having divers place a small object at each corner on the first pattern

then collecting the object as they navigate the second pattern. Having divers navigate a rectangle that represents an enlarged

National Geographic logo. For example, 20 kick cycles by 14 kick cycles.

Having divers navigate the pattern mid-water using their buoyancy

skills to control depth.

Repeating the pattern several times while lengthening each leg.

Having divers list as many specific features as possible along the route

and then compare their lists to a list you prepared to see how observant

they were.

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Aquatic Life IdentificationEntry-level (alternative skill)

Some dive sites may make the navigation exercise impractical because the topog-

raphy would force a square or rectangle

to be too small. Other dive sites may have

incredibly clear water and flat topography

that make navigation so easy that there is

no challenge. For the entry-level National

Geographic Diver programs conducted in

these areas, the alternative aquatic life iden-

tification skill may be completed to add value

and challenge to the dive.

Entry-level divers must complete

either the navigation exercise or the aquatic

life identification exercise for National

Geographic Diver certification. They may

complete both; however, only one skill is required.

Specialty Course

Specialty course divers must complete the aquatic life identification exercise.

As mentioned, you may integrate the aquatic life identification requirement with

the Exploration Project. This should encourage divers to include even more detail

about the creatures they observe within their visual representation.

1. Have student divers prepare for the dive by referring to books or slates that

contain descriptions of local aquatic life.

2. Discuss the common creatures in the area and give divers specific suggestionsabout where they should look for certain animals or plants.

3. Have divers prepare slates that allow them to quickly note the aquatic life

they observe and ensure that they meet the performance requirements two

aquatic plants (one for freshwater), four aquatic invertebrate animals (one for

freshwater), and five aquatic vertebrate animals (two for freshwater).

Aquatic plants that divers may look for may include algae, kelp, grasses,

or flowering plants.

Aquatic invertebrates that divers should

look for may include sponges, corals, anem-

ones, jellyfish, segmented worms, snails,

clams, octopuses, squid, lobsters, crabs,

shrimps, freshwater crawfish, sea stars,

urchins, cucumbers, brittle stars and sea

squirts.

Aquatic vertebrates divers may look for

may include skates, rays, sharks, bony fish,

sea turtles, amphibians, reptiles, manatees,

dolphins and seals.

PADI

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Specialty Dive Course Skills andPerformance Requirements

Dive One

Skills Overview Knowledge Review

Weight System Assembly

Briefing

Suiting Up

Predive Safety Check (BWRAF)

Entry

Buoyancy Check

Descent Neutral Buoyancy

Hover Exploration Project

Ascent Safety Stop

Exit

Debrief

Log Dive Complete Adventure Dive Training Record

Performance Requirements

By the end of this dive, the student diver will be able to:

1. Rig a weight system distributing the weight for comfort and trim.

2. Conduct a buoyancy check by adjusting weights to achieve neutral

buoyancy at the surface with the BCD inflated.

3. Make a controlled, slow descent to the bottom and adjust for neu-

tral buoyancy using the BCD.

4. Adjust weights (trim) and practice hovering in different positions --

horizontally, feet slightly elevated and head slightly elevated.

5. Complete the Exploration Project that includes gathering informa-

tion and/or images and creating a visual representation of the dive

site detailing special features.


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Dive Two

Skills Overview

Compass Use

Briefing

Suiting Up Predive Safety Check (BWRAF)

Entry

Descent

Navigate a square or rectangle pattern underwater

Observe and identify vertebrates, invertebrates, and aquatic plants

Ascent Safety Stop

Exit

Use reference materials to identify unfamiliar aquatic organisms

Debrief

Log Dive Complete Adventure Dive Training Record

Performance Requirements

By the end of this dive, the student diver will be able to:

1. Make a controlled, slow descent to the bottom and adjust for neu-

tral buoyancy using the BCD.

2. Maintain neutral buoyancy during the dive.

3. Navigate a square or rectangular pattern using both compass

headings and natural references to return to the starting point.

4. Locate and identify by name at least two aquatic plants (one forfreshwater), four aquatic invertebrate animals (one for freshwa-

ter), and five aquatic vertebrate animals (two for fresh water).

5. Record sightings on a slate and include diagrams and descriptions

of unfamiliar aquatic animals and plants.


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Appendix PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide

21

Appendix

National Geographic Diver Referral Record 23

PADI Open Water Diver Course Record and Referral Form 24



Answer Key

Adventure Dive Training Record 27

Specialty Training Record 28


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PADI National Geographic Diver Instructor Guide Appendix

22


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23

National Geographic Diver Referral RecordTo the Student Diver: This form is a record of the training youve completed. A copy of your PADI Diver certification

card or PADI Open Water Diver Record and Referral Form must accompany this record. If you begin your training with aPADI National Geographic Dive Center in one location and will travel to complete training, you must present this record

to the PADI National Geographic Dive Center in the new location that will complete your training. This referral record isvalid for one year from the last training segment you completed.

Student Name _______________________________________________________________________ Sex M F

Mailing Address ________________________________________________________ Birth Date ____________________Day / Month / Year

City _______________________ State/Province ______________ Zip/Postal Code _____________ Country ___________

Phone (____)__________________ Business Phone (____)__________________ email ____________________________

KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT Date Instructor Initials** PADI Number

Received and Reviewed National Geographic Diver Almanac ______________ _________________ _____________

Received and Reviewed National Geographic Diver DVD ______________ _________________ _____________CompletedAlmanacKnowledge Review ______________ _________________ _____________

DIVE SKILLS COMPLETED Date Instructor Initials** PADI Number

1. Hovering requirement ______________ _________________ _____________

2. Exploration Project ______________ _________________ _____________

3. Navigation exercise ______________ _________________ _____________

4. Aquatic life identification exercise ______________ _________________ _____________

Student Statement:I understand the training requirements for the PADI National Geographic Diver program and have

successfully completed all National Geographic Divercertification requirements. I am adequately prepared to dive in

areas and under conditions similar to those in which I was trained. I realize that additional training is recommended forparticipation in specialty diving activities, in other geographical areas and after periods of in activity that exceed six months.I agree to abide by PADIs Standard Safe Diving Practices.

Student Signature ______________________________________________________ Date __________________________Day / Month / Year

All requirements for certification as a National Geographic Diverhave been met.

Instructor Signature ___________________________________ PADI No. _______________ Date __________________Day / Month / Year

All PADI Instructors who initial this document must complete an identification section below.

PADI Instructor_____________________________________ Signature__________________________________________

PADI No.___________________________ Dive Center/Resort No.____________________ Date____________________Day / Month / Year

Phone (_____)_____________________ Fax (_____)_____________________ email ________________________

PADI Instructor_____________________________________ Signature__________________________________________

PADI No.___________________________ Dive Center/Resort No.____________________ Date____________________Day / Month / Year

Phone (_____)_____________________ Fax (_____)_____________________ email ________________________

**I certify that this student has satisfactorily completed this skill/module/dive as outlined in the PADI National Geographic DIver Instructor

Guide. I am a PADI Instructor renewed in Teaching status for the current year.

Product No. 10059 (12/05) Version 1.01 PADI 2005

FOR

INSTRUCTOR

USE

ONLY


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25

National Geographic Diver

Knowledge ReviewAfter reading theNational Geographic Diver Almanac,please answer the following questions:

1. What unifies adventure, conservation, and exploration in diving?

2. The National Geographic Society is one of the worlds largest nonprofit _________________ institutions

that supports vital ______________, conservation, _______________, and education programs.

3. The National Geographic Societys current focus is guided by a keen awareness that our natural

resources _____________ and that better educating youngsters is key to _____________ .

4. The worldwide PADI organization is dedicated to: (choose all that apply)

a. quality diver education programs c. protecting our underwater cultural heritage

b. preserving the aquatic environment d. diver safety

5. Diving on a wreck provides an opportunity to: (choose all that apply)

a. delve into the past and learn about c. collect ancient souvenirs and salvage sunken

maritime history treasures b. explore an artificial aquatic life habitat d. safely swim into an overhead environment

6. As a diver, you can help protect the worlds coral reefs by: (choose all that apply)

a. Controlling your buoyancy and securing your equipment to avoid accidental contact

b. Using a camera to bring back memories and leaving everything else in place

c. Not purchasing souvenirs made from coral or any endangered species

d. Choosing resorts and tour operators that follow good environmental practices

7. What issues most affect the stability of marine mammal populations?

8. True or False? Sharks are key predators that play a vital role in balancing the complex aquatic food

chain and need to be protected. True False

9. List at least four activities that divers enjoy at freshwater dive sites.

1.

2.

3.

4..

10. In the future, underwater scientists hope to discover: (choose all that apply) a. the origins of life history and evolution c. new energy sources

b. new medicines d. how to more effectively conserve the aquaticworld

Name _____________________________________________________ Date _______________ Total Correct _____________(Please Print)

Student Diver Statement: I have reviewed the questions I answered incorrectly or incompletely, and I nowunderstand what I missed. Student Signature _________________________________________ Date _________________


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Knowledge Review Answer KeyAfter reading theNational Geographic Diver Almanac,please answer the following questions:

1. What unifies adventure, conservation, and exploration in diving? Education

2. The National Geographic Society is one of the worlds largest nonprofit scientific and educational

institutions that supports vital exploration,conservation, research, and education programs.

3. The National Geographic Societys current focus is guided by a keen awareness that our natural

resources need protectionand that better educating youngsters is key to the planets future.

4. The worldwide PADI organization is dedicated to: (choose all that apply)

a. quality diver education programs c. protecting our underwater cultural heritage

b. preserving the aquatic environment d. diver safety

5. Diving on a wreck provides an opportunity to: (choose all that apply)

a. delve into the past and learn about c. collect ancient souvenirs and salvage sunkenmaritime history treasures

b. explore an artificial aquatic life habitat d. safely swim into an overhead environment

6. As a diver, you can help protect the worlds coral reefs by: (choose all that apply)

a. Controlling your buoyancy and securing your equipment to avoid accidental contact

b. Using a camera to bring back memories and leaving everything else in place

c. Not purchasing souvenirs made from coral or any endangered species

d. Choosing resorts and tour operators that follow good environmental practices

7. What issues most affect the stability of marine mammal populations?

Fishing and hunting practices, oil spills, plastic garbage, pollution, and noise pollution

8. True or False? Sharks are key predators that play a vital role in balancing the complex aquatic food

chain and need to be protected. True False

9. List at least four activities that divers enjoy at freshwater dive sites.

1. Artifact collecting 4. Ice Diving

2. Visiting submerged structures or forests 5. Aquatic life identification

3. Drifting down rivers

10. In the future, underwater scientists hope to discover: (choose all that apply)

a. the origins of life history and evolution c. new energy sources

b. new medicines d. how to more effectively conserve the aquaticworld

Product No. 10291 (6/04) Version 1.0 International PADI, Inc. 2004


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27

Adventure Dive:

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIVE

"I verify that I have completed all of the Performance Requirements for thisAdventure Dive. I realize that there is more to learn and that completion of aNational Geographic Diver Specialty course is highly recommended. I also agree

to abide by PADI Standard Safe Diving Practices."

Knowledge Review

Weight System Assembly

Briefing

Suiting Up

Predive Safety Check (BWRAF)

Entry

Descent Neutral Buoyancy

Hover

Exploration Project

Ascent Safety Stop

Exit

Debrief

Log Dive Complete Training

Record

Instructor Contact Information (Please Print)

State/ProvinceCity

Instructor Mailing Address

Country

Phone/FAX/email

Zip/Postal Code

Skills Overview

"I verify that this student has satisfactorily completed the Knowledge Reviewand Performance Requirements (as described in PADI's Adventures in Div-ing Program Instructor Guide) for this PADI Adventure Dive. I am a renewed,Teaching status PADI Instructor for the current year."

Instructor NameFirst Middle Initial Last

Instructor Statement

PADI No.

Instructor Signature

Dive Completion Date

Student Diver Statement

Diver Signature DateDay/Month/Year

Day/Month/Year

PADI Adventure Dive Training Record


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PADI Specialty Training Record


I verify that this student has satisfactorily completed all knowledge de-velopment as outlined in the PADI National Geographic Diver InstructorGuide. I am a renewed, Teaching status PADI Instructor in this specialty.

Instructor Name ______________________________________________________________ PADI#_____________

Instructor Signature _________________________________________________ Completion Date ______________

Open Water DivesDive OneI verify that this student has satisfactorily completed Dive One as outlined inthe PADINational Geographic DiverInstructor Guide including:

Assemble weight system Hovering three positions Exploration Project

I am a renewed, Teaching status PADI Instructor teaching through a PADINational Geographic Dive Center.

Instructor Name ___________________________________________________________________ PADI #______________

Instructor Signature _______________________________________________________ Completion Date ______________

Dive TwoI verify that this student has satisfactorily completed Dive Two as outlined inthe PADINational Geographic DiverInstructor Guide including:

Maintain neutral buoyancy Navigate a square or rectangle pattern Identify aquatic plants, invertebrate and vertebrate animals Record sightings of unfamiliar aquatic life

I am a renewed, Teaching status PADI Instructor teaching through a PADINational Geographic Dive Center.

Instructor Name ___________________________________________________________________ PADI #______________

Instructor Signature _______________________________________________________ Completion Date ______________

I verify that I have completed all performance requirements for thisNational Geographic Diver Specialty. I am adequately prepared to divein areas and under conditions similar to those in which I was trained. I

agree to abide by PADI Standard Safe Diving Practices.

Student Name ____________________________________________________________________________________

Student Signature ______________________________________________________________Date ______________

National Geographic Instructor Guide

Documents

Transcript of National Geographic Instructor Guide