The Future of the Great Barrier Reef — Passage

Grades
2
3
4
Standards
RI.3.8
RI.4.8
PRINT+DIGITAL RESOURCE
This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksshet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
ABOUT THIS READER
This passage examines potential future scenarios for the Great Barrier Reef in the face of ongoing climate change. It discusses the possibility of more frequent and intense coral bleaching events, which could lead to significant reef damage and loss of marine habitats. The text highlights concerns about the reef's potential shrinkage and loss of biodiversity. However, it also presents a message of hope, discussing the potential for coral adaptation and the importance of climate change mitigation efforts. The passage emphasizes the critical role of human action in determining the reef's future. Keywords: Great Barrier Reef future, climate change impacts, coral adaptation, marine conservation, ecosystem resilience, environmental projections, coral bleaching, biodiversity loss, climate action, marine ecosystem preservation.
Publisher: Workybooks
|
Written by:Neha Goel Tripathi
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Illustrated by:

The future of the Great Barrier Reef depends on how we address climate change. If global temperatures continue to rise, the reef could face serious challenges. More frequent and intense coral bleaching events could occur, leaving large areas of the reef damaged or dead. This would mean less habitat for fish and other marine life. The reef might shrink in size and lose its vibrant colors. Some scientists worry that if nothing changes, the Great Barrier Reef as we know it might not exist by the end of this century. However, there is hope. If we can slow down climate change, the reef might have a chance to recover and adapt. New types of heat-resistant corals could help the reef survive. With protection and care, the Great Barrier Reef could continue to be a wonder of the natural world for future generations.

What is the main factor that will determine the future of the Great Barrier Reef?

TourismFishing practicesClimate changeOcean currents

What could happen if global temperatures continue to rise?

The reef will grow largerMore frequent and intense coral bleachingNew species of fish will appearThe water will become clearer

How might the appearance of the reef change if it's damaged?

It will become more colorfulIt will grow tallerIt will lose its vibrant colorsIt will turn red

According to some scientists, what might happen to the reef by the end of this century if nothing changes?

It might double in sizeIt might not exist as we know itIt might move to a different locationIt might become a land mass

What is one potential way the reef might survive rising temperatures?

By growing deeper into the oceanBy developing heat-resistant coralsBy producing more algaeBy attracting more fish

What does the passage suggest about the reef's future?

It's certain to be destroyedIt will definitely remain unchangedThere's no hope for its survivalThere's hope if we take action to protect it

Common core standards covered

RI.3.8
Describe the logical connection between particular sentences and paragraphs in a text (e.g., comparison, cause/effect, first/second/third in a sequence).
RI.4.8
Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text.

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