Let's create continuous conversations about climate change education: Spreading the Sediment of Science!

Glowing for Attention

Provided by: UCI Science Project; NOAA; The Ocean Agency
Activates Student AgencyLesson Plans Grades k-2

Synopsis

In this multi-day lesson, students will learn about corals, see why they fluoresce, learn about ocean acidification and pollution, and find out how they can help improve coral health.  The lesson includes an animated story for students to read, a hands-on model of coral that students make with clay, and a list of actions students can take to protect coral reefs.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
Subjects: SCI, ELA
Authors: UCI Science Project
Region: Global

Key Focus Areas

Core Component 1: Investigating Climate Change Through Hands-On Experiences

Students read about coral reef organisms and then create their own “pet coral” using clay to represent their coral and the symbiotic relationship between corals and zooxanthellae.


Core Component 2: Student-Centered Projects and Action Plans

After learning about the corals, zooxanthellae, and parrot fish, students learn about the changes occurring in the oceans due to human activities. They are challenged to think about how they can act in the best interest of corals and the environment when faced with various choices and situations.


Core Component 3: Emotional Support and Empathy Building

The picture book in the presentation personifies the corals and other marine creatures, which helps students empathize with them as they describe how they’re feeling.  They also see how making different choices can positively affect marine life and coral reefs.  The tips for guided discussions found in the Google Slides will help teachers engage with their students to support their emotions as well.

This lesson also leans into the ideas of:

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