http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education Inspiring ocean literacy and conservation through
National Marine Sanctuaries
Oceans for Life Lesson Plan
Predators Among Us
O VERVIEW
This lesson wi l focus on human beings as predators, specifically in coral reef ecosystems. Issues
examined include over-fishing, pollution, global warming, coastal development, and passive
"predatory" behavior that results from neglecting marine resources. Students will explore the
various ways in which humans act as predators on coral reef ecosystems. They will define
predator and discuss humans as predators. They will then describe and discuss the negative
effects of human behavior on coral reef ecosystems. Finally, they will generate a list of ways in
which human beings can help restore and protect coral reefs.
This lesson is one in a series exploring the history, biology, and ecology of the National Marine
F OCUS
Human beings as predators, specifically in
coral reef ecosystems
M ATERIALS
Computer with internet access (Note: all
information can be pre-downloaded and
printed)
F OCUS Q UESTIONS
• What are direct actions that impact coral
reef ecosystems?
• How are coral reef ecosystems impacted by
the negative effects of human behavior?
• What can be done to restore and protect
the coral reef ecosystem?
A UDIO V ISUAL M ATERIALS
T EACHING T IME
Three to four hours
L EARNING O BJECTIVES
Students will:
• define predator;
• describe the effects of human activity on
coral reef ecosystems; and
• generate a list of ways in which humans can
restore coral reefs.
S EATING A RRANGEMENT
Whole-class instruction and small group
activities
M AXIMUM N UMBER OF S TUDENTS
No limit
K EY W ORDS
Predator, Prey, Ecosystem, Reef
P REPARATION
• Download and prepare video clips
Predators Among Us • Page 1
