Book Summary
Coral reefs are massive undersea communities where one quarter of all plants and animals in the ocean make their homes. The book discusses the diverse but fragile world of the coral reef and the need for its protection. 

Lesson Objectives

Reading Strategies
Students should use a variety of strategies to determine word meaning and comprehend text. The target strategy for this lesson is: making connections between what students read and what they already know.

Word and Print Skills

Phonics
Closed syllables
Grammar
Prepositions
Word Work
Multiple-syllable words

Targeted Vocabulary Words
atoll, barrier reef, bleaching, crevices, crustaceans, erosion, fringing reef, lagoon, polyps, runoff

These are difficult words that students will encounter in the text. You may want to review and discuss the words after reading and have students add them to the classroom word wall or dictionary. Make sure you use these words in the Book Walk to reinforce them prior to reading.

Comprehension
You will likely address a number of comprehension skills as students work to understand the text. The target comprehension strategy for this lesson is: cause and effect. 

Visual Learning
Reading a cross section