This is a classroom activity in which students use authentic data to assess the threat of coral bleaching around the world.

In this computer-based activity, students download, graph, and analyze authentic satellite temperature data for coral reef sites around the world. The activity includes a mapping component so the students work individually on one particular coral reef location and then the findings for the whole class are summarized on a set of world maps. After observing global trends in the data, students evaluate the threat to coral reefs from heat stress, which has been occurring with increased intensity and frequency in recent years.

Download the teacher document to see an overview of the entire activity. The ZIP file contains the student worksheet, maps, and graphs that are needed to complete the activity.