Coral Reef in a Box
Activity - Classroom
Grades1, 2Science, Visual and Performing Arts
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Provided by ClimateScience
What it is
- This lesson plan and activity teaches students about coral reefs and how they are being damaged by climate change.
- Students will make a coral reef diorama in a shoebox.
- The resource includes links to a number of easy-to-understand articles on ocean acidification and coral bleaching.
Teaching tips
Preparation:
- The student handout does not include any photographs of coral, so consider having a few images of coral reefs ready to show the students.
Differentiation:
- Older students make a dual diorama with one half of the box representing a healthy coral reef and one half of the box representing a bleached coral reef. Students write a few sentences to describe the two scenes.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- Visual Arts
- Modify this activity to make it a sculpting project. Each student sculpts a piece of coral and then the corals are collectively arranged into a reef. The coral reef and a brief description of the dangers they face due to climate change are displayed in the school.
Related Resources:
- Other resources on this topic include this interactive storybook about biodiversity in Australia, and this video on ocean acidification.
From the scientist review
The resource provides insights on coral reefs and their importance in sustaining the biotic resources in marine ecosystems. Students can learn about coral reef ecosystems and how climate change has had a negative impact on them. Students will also create their own coral reef box. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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