The Coral Check-Up Lesson Series
The Coral Check-Up Lesson Series introduces students to coral reef monitoring and ecology through immersive, real-world virtual experiences focused on the Hawaiian Archipelago. Using data and resources from NOAA and its partners, students investigate coral bleaching and its impacts, joining a global effort to protect and conserve coral reefs. The series aims to help students understand and care deeply about the coral reefs of the Hawaiian Archipelago, including habitats within Papahānaumokuakea National Marine Sanctuary. Through this work, students begin to see themselves as reef stewards, emerging scientists, and active agents of change.
Grade Level: Intended for grades 7 to 9, adaptable for upper elementary and early high school
Education Standards: Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards | Common Core | Ocean Literacy Principles
Instructional Approach: Uses scaffolded, virtual, inquiry-driven learning with real-world NOAA data, interactive online tools, student field journaling, and project-based presentation
The Coral Check-Up Teacher's Guide contains background information, lesson plans, lesson extensions, answer keys, and other special information to aid in teaching this topic.
Download the Student Field Journal
The Coral Check-Up Student Field Journal serves as each student's personal workbook. It contains instructions, hyperlinks, guiding questions, and room to record observations and notes for each section of this lesson series. The fillable forms embedded within the PDF allow each student to record their work directly within their field journal.
Want to Learn More About Coral Reefs?
Visit the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries' Coral Reef Ecosystems Resource Collection for more educational content about coral reefs, and visit the main Education Page for more STEAM lessons, activities, and resources exploring and celebrating the diverse ecosystems, cultures, and histories protected and honored within the National Marine Sanctuary System.