Corals are Cool and Crucial
Students will explore the importance of the Great Barrier Reef and local reefs, investigating the coral lifecycle and the ways ocean life depends on interconnected relationships for survival. They will examine the threats posed by climate change and other human impacts, and discover how citizen scientists contribute valuable data on coral health. Through hands-on practice with virtual tools, students will monitor, collect, and analyse coral data. Finally, they will identify sustainable actions they can take in their daily lives and
Colours on the Reef
This lesson plan focuses on learning about the importance of coral reefs and how colour can act as an indicator of reef health. Students develop an understanding of living things (coral) that can grow in different shapes and their needs within the habitat (coral reefs). Severe changes in water temperature can cause corals to change colour from brown/green to white (coral bleaching).
Coral Spawning
Behind the News explores a remarkable annual event on the Great Barrier Reef, where coral across the region simultaneously reproduce. This year, however, experts are watching more closely than usual
Ocean Rubbish Clean-Up
Behind the News looks into a massive project that is underway to start cleaning up the Pacific Ocean. A giant tube is being towed out to a giant patch of garbage where around 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic have gathered together.
Shark Cull Debate
Behind the News - What seems like a spike in shark attacks has some people worried about going for a swim in the sea. It's prompted politicians and experts to get together and discuss solutions.
Antarctic Animals
Behind the News finds out more about some of the interesting animals that call the Antarctic circle home and how humans may be affecting them.
Ocean Noise Pollution
Behind the News looks into a new report that has found the world’s oceans are getting noisier, and it’s having a big impact on the creatures that live there. We find out more about what’s behind the changing ocean soundtrack and why it’s upsetting the underwater ecosystem.
Coral Bleaching
Behind the News looks into widespread coral bleaching has been discovered across the Marine Park. We find out more about what that means and why it’s got experts worried about the reef’s future
Antarctic Sea Ice
Behind the News - Scientists say that the sea ice levels around Antarctica are at the lowest they've ever been, and that if they continue to shrink, there could be serious consequences for the planet. Jack finds out what’s likely to happen next, and what we can do about it.
Shark Nets
Behind the News looks at the role shark nets play near some popular swimming spots however, scientists and conservationists are calling for them to be banned. We find out why shark nets are controversial and what other methods governments are looking into to keep sharks away from swimmers.