Because of the interrelatedness of our ecosystems, the loss of the coral reefs will have untold effects on the world. Each student has a sheet of paper on a clip board. For a period of 3-5 minutes, every student mills around the room asking the other students what they know about the destruction of or the importantce of coral reefs. All answers are recorded since this is a brainstorming activity. The responses are then discussed in cooperative teams and then reported out to the class.
Students visit Internet sites to verify, correct, and support their responses.
Statement Number 1 People should be encouraged to participate in coral reef sight-seeing ventures to increase their appreciation of this ecosystem. Statement Number 2 Warming ocean temperatures is beneficial to the reef formations, because it increases coral polyp production. It is important to maintain a proper balance of algae in the reef ecosystem. Presented by the Indiana Academy Office of Outreach Programs , the UPS Foundation , the National Museum of Natural History , the Natural Partners Program , Ball State University , and Ball State Teachers College .