Coral Reef Bleaching Lesson Plan

Coral reefs are one of the most biologically productive ecosystems on Earth. Most people have seen images of brightly colored fishes and other reef-dwelling organisms, yet many do not understand why these systems are personally important. Programs and articles about coral reefs typically point out benefits that include protecting shorelines from erosion and storm damage, supplying foods that are important to many coastal communities, and providing recreational and economic opportunities.

In this lesson plan, students will be able to identify and explain five ways that coral reefs benefit human beings, identify and explain three major threats to coral reefs, describe major components of the Coral Reef Early Warning System and identify and discuss actions that can be undertaken to reduce or eliminate threats to coral reefs.