Coral Reef Ecosystems (Nonfiction Passage)

Start with a minute of talk: Why do you think reefs are called the rainforests of the sea? Then have students read the passage on page 1, about 270 words in 6 short paragraphs, pencil in hand. They can underline facts as they go. Then students move to page 2 for three multiple choice items and two written responses, citing evidence for each answer in their own words. Check the work with the answer key.

Coral Reef Ecosystems gives 5th grade students a nonfiction passage of about 270 words about how coral reefs depend on tiny partners and why warmer water puts them at risk, followed by five questions. The questions practice vocabulary in context, cause and effect and the author's purpose, and the sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.5.1. An answer key is included.

Coral Reef Ecosystems is a nonfiction passage of about 270 words about how coral reefs depend on tiny partners and why warmer water puts them at risk. It is written for 5th grade readers (ages 10-11) and has 6 short paragraphs, so students can read it in one sitting.

Its five questions, three multiple choice and two written, practice cause and effect, vocabulary in context and the author's purpose. Questions include "What is the relationship between a coral and its algae" and "Why is warm water dangerous for reefs". The sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.5.1, and the answer key is included so you can check responses quickly.

Try this conversation starter: Why do you think reefs are called the rainforests of the sea? Let students skim the title, then read once for the gist. A second pass with a pencil helps them mark the facts they need.

Plan about 20 to 25 minutes in all: the reading first, then the five questions. At home, a parent can read the questions aloud and talk through the written answers. In class, it works well for independent practice or a quick check of vocabulary in context and cause and effect.