Coral oceans Primary I Ages 7-11 Reef builders Lesson 2

Learning objectives Describe how the tiny coral animal makes the reef Lesson 2: Reef builders Learning objectives Describe how the tiny coral animal makes the reef Identify a range of living things that have their home in the coral habitat Produce a artistic version of the coral habitat Reflect on the diversity of life on the coral reef

Lesson 2: Reef builders This is a close-up photograph of coral, showing the tiny coral polyps, the animals that form the reef.

Lesson 2: Reef builders You can see each polyp living inside the overall structure. All these polyps living together are called a colony.

Lesson 2: Reef builders These structures are created by the polyps from minerals dissolved in the ocean.

Lesson 2: Reef builders Over hundreds of years. These mineral structures build up to create the reef

Lesson 2: Reef builders Some of these reef structures are so big that you can see them from outer space, like the Great Barrier Reef.

Lesson 2: Reef builders

Now it’s your turn to make your own reef. Either in a box… Lesson 2: Reef builders Now it’s your turn to make your own reef. Either in a box…

Lesson 2: Reef builders …or a reef mural.

Now complete your dive log: Lesson 2: Reef builders Now complete your dive log: Describe the importance of the coral polyp for all living things on the reef. Choose your three favourite living things that found on the coral reef giving reasons.

Photo credits Slide Image Credit Slide 6 Slide 7 Slide 8 Lesson 2: Reef builders Photo credits Slide Slide 6 Slide 7 Slide 8 Image Satellite image Reef in a box Reef mural Credit Google/Landsat Encounter Edu All other images and photos XL Catlin Seaview Survey