Discussion about what is alive and not with reference to coral reef at snorkelling / Activity Analysis

Science

• The child learned that coral is a living organism and is part of a coral reef ecosystem.
• They learned that fish and other marine animals living in the coral reef are also alive.
• They learned that coral reefs are made up of both living and non-living things, such as rocks and sand.
• The child learned that some things they observed while snorkeling, like shells and seashells, were once alive but are no longer living.

For continued development related to this activity, encourage the child to explore other ecosystems and discuss what is alive and not alive in each. Take them on nature walks to observe plants and animals, or visit a zoo or aquarium to learn about different species. Provide opportunities for the child to draw or create models of various living and non-living things they encounter.

Book Recommendations

• The Coral Reef by Gail Gibbons: This book provides an introduction to coral reefs, their inhabitants, and the importance of protecting them.
• What's Alive? by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld: This book explores the characteristics of living things and helps children understand what it means to be alive.
• From Tadpole to Frog by Wendy Pfeffer: This book follows the life cycle of a frog and introduces children to the concept of metamorphosis.