Coral Reef in a Box
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Provided by: ClimateScience|Published on: April 27, 2021
Activity - Classroom
Scientist Reviewed
12
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- 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.

Subjects: Science, Visual and Performing Arts
Authors: ClimateScience
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
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.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider

ClimateScience
ClimateScience inspires young talents to seek careers in fields where they contribute to climate solutions. By providing beautifully illustrated, understandable, science-based educational content for free for everyone, they are building the fundamentals for Climate Education.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →




