Middle schoolers research the growth of coral. In this coral polyps instructional activity, students simulate the growth of coral by using available materials to grow crystals. Middle schoolers record observations in a scientific journal.

Young oceanographers research deep sea corals that thrive on chemosynthesis. The lesson focuses on the biology of the animal, preferred habitat, associations, and interactions.

Design a public information campaign to improve understanding of the coral reef crisis. Read about and discuss the biology and threats to the coral reef. The class creates a public information program about the problems facing the coral...

Students examine deep-sea coral. In this coral lesson plan, students identify the structure and function of a coral polyp. Students then create a model of a coral polyp.

Analyze and graph oxygen isotope ratios in coral samples in relation to the distance from the outer skeleton edge. Compare the data to the mean monthly water temperatures. Uncover whether or not there is any correlation. In addition to...

Students label the continents, oceans, and seas on a provided world map and use it to determine where they would expect most of the world's coral reefs to be found based on provided information the teacher has read to them.

Students create a poster about coral reefs. In this oceanography lesson, students teach the class about a given aspect of the coral reefs.  Students create posters with images and facts about this habitat. 

Coral Reefs are the focus of a life science lesson plan. Upper graders look at how coral reefs are formed, how the animals and plants reproduce, and the variety of ways that humans benefit from coral reefs around the world. Groups of...

Students research life forms of both tropical coral reefs and deep-sea coral reefs to discover the biodiversity of the ecosystems. They compare and contrast the diversity and adaptations of the two eco-systems, and draw a picture showing...

Students create a dramatic play. In this coral lesson, students explore the anatomy of coral. Working in groups, students research the form and function of coral and present a skit to represent their learning.

Students research the basic morphology of Lophelia corals and polyps to determine the significance of these organisms. They detail the reasons that biological communities are focusing on the Lophelia corals as major conservation efforts.

Fifth graders examine the concept of coral bleaching and sea surface temperature. They view a teacher demonstration, interpret sea surface temperature data, explore a website, and complete worksheets.

Fifth graders investigate coral reefs and the dangers they face by labeling and drawing.  In this oceanography lesson, 5th graders view a PowerPoint presentation of photographs of coral reefs in Belize.  Students investigate...

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has developed a tremendous library of ocean-themed lessons that can be used in a variety of science settings. "Feeding in the Flow" is one of those activities; Its focus is on...

Students study coral reefs and marine communities.  In this investigative lesson students get into groups and are assigned a subject.  In their groups they create a poster about their assigned topic. 

From coloring to hard protective shells, ocean creatures have adaptation features that help them survive. An eight-question online quiz highlights different ocean animals and their unique characteristics. The resource then offers pop-up...

Students discover how islands form, how plant and animal species get there and what the term means.  In this biomes instructional activity students prepare a presentation that describes the life forms and geography of an island.