Coral Snapshots: Biodiversity in Marine Protected Areas

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
In this data activity, learners analyze data from coral reef snapshots taken by scientists at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Learners chart data on an excel spreadsheet while recognizing major components of a coral reef, describing several indices used to characterize biodiversity, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of marine protected areas and evaluating the use of a computer program versus quadrat sampling when surveying a coral reef. This detailed lesson guide includes key vocabulary words, background information, useful links/resources, and extension ideas.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per student
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Computing
      • Information Technology
    • Engineering
      • Ocean Engineering
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
      • Populations
      • Human Impact
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Data Representation
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science and Society
      • Public Policy
    • The Scientific Process
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and the Environment

Informal Categories

  • Animals
  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • use keyboard
  • use mouse
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Petrone, Christopher J.

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • NOAA Sea Grant
  • National Marine Educators Association