BEYE Discovery: Earth Month: The Coral Reef!

Hi Families,

Throughout Earth Month, students in all classes had the opportunity to learn about the importance of the coral reefs and to create sea corals and other sea creatures for a collective coral reef exhibition (now on display on the 2nd floor landing above the auditorium).

Brody (starfish) and Norah (sea sponge)

The project was conceived and introduced by Hata, who explained how small animals called polyps create the reefs over thousands of years, through the formation of limestone cups made to protect their bodies. When the polyps die, their limestone cups remain and over time the coral reefs are formed. Hata explained that the reefs are home to extremely large numbers of ocean species and she discussed the importance of reef biodiversity to the health of our planet. Students learned that over-fishing, boats, tourists and rising sea temperatures are damaging the coral reefs and destroying the sea life that depends on the coral for their survival.

Coral types: hard and soft

Dangers to the coral reefs

Students were extremely engaged in this project and mentioned that it was one of their favorite projects of the year. Please stop by to see their coral reef display in person: It is a wonderful testament to the beauty and life that lives within the world's coral reefs!