• In this activity, students interpret and analyze data presented in a bar graph from a study that investigated the potential for corals to become more resistant to bleaching.
• It demonstrates how the increase in temperature affects coral reefs and if they might be able to cope with this change.
  

Positives

• This resource includes the "Interpreting the Figures" and "Discussion Questions" sections that can be used to enhance students' critical thinking and interpretive skills.

• The " Educator Materials" document contains labeled illustrations, background information, interpretation of the illustrations, and discussion questions.
• Students learn how to analyze data from a scientific figure.

Additional Prerequisites

• The teacher must download PDFs of the educator materials and the student handout.
• There is a JPG available of the graph.
• Teachers can find the materials in Spanish.
  

Differentiation

• Support group (below level): The teacher could lead the discussion and help students develop observations and interpretations.
  
• Extension group (above level): Students may be asked to research the relationship between the temperature of the water and the extent of coral bleaching.
• The teacher could ask students to complete a project in which they describe how coral reefs benefit humans and other organisms and to explain coral bleaching and its impacts.
• Other recommended resources include Coral Reefs in Hot Water and Changing Planet: Fading Corals.

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.