Coastal Ecosystems

Starter- Copy and Complete

1. Write the title Coastal Ecosystems

2. Given the large amounts of __________ and _________ which have taken place in the coastal areas of the world. It is easy to forget that the coast is home to a ________of _________. In their natural state, coasts can be very rich in __________. We will look at ______ different ecosystems starting today with Coral Reefs.

3. Write down three facts that you already know about Coral reefs.

Lesson Objectives

To know what a coral reef is and the four factors affecting formation. Be able to describe location of coral reef ecosystems- C

To be able to describe the four factors affecting the formation as well as the location of coral reef ecosystems- B

To describe and explain the formation of coral reef ecosystems clearly linked to the location – A

What is an ecosystem?

Definition- The relationship and interaction between plants and animals (biotic) and the physical environment (abiotic). A community of plants and animals that interact with each other and the environment.

So what factors could affect an ecosystem ?

How many living things can you see in this picture?

What are Coral Reefs?

What is a coral reef?

Have you mentioned any of these?

1. Referred to as ‘gardens of the sea’

2. Wide range of plant, animal and fish life.

3. Develop in warm, shallow seas.

4. Marine / Ocean ecosystem

What is a coral reef?

Watch the clip and find out!

During the clip you should complete a spider diagram with facts about coral reefs.

Coral reefs are the ‘gardens of the sea’ because ….

Dessert- Different ShoesIf…

A giant turtle

…had taught today’s lesson, how might it have been different and why?

NOTE: Think carefully about the content of the lesson rather than the fact turtles cant really talk....

Now answer the following questions: 1. What is a coral reef? (2 marks) 2. What are the four ‘ingredients’ required for

their formation? (8 marks) 3. What are the local factors affecting where

coral reefs develop? (6 marks)

Total= 16 marks

Where are Coral Reefs located?

Where are Coral Reefs located?

• Look at the map.• DESCRIBE the location of coral reefs in the world • “Coral reefs are mainly found near the....”• “Coral reefs are found between the....”

Extension: Explain why you think coral reefs are located in these places.

Where are Coral reefs distributed? Why?

1. Mark the distribution of coral reefs onto your maps.

2. Describe the distribution (4 marks)

OR 2. Describe and explain the

distribution (6 marks)