For schools
Classroom tools in action
We made Chasing Coral to invigorate discussions around climate issues and activate youth to be a part of the solution. Below you’ll find five resources designed to do the same. We recommend sharing the film with your students to kick off the conversation.
For a grant of permission for educational screenings and tech tips for virtual classrooms:
the unstoppable schools project
“I’ve said it a million times: screening Chasing Coral in my sixth grade science classroom is one of the most impactful, moving experiences I’ve witnessed as a teacher.”
– Ally Caruso, New Jersey
Chasing Coral’s Unstoppable Schools Project, a project-based learning curriculum designed for middle and high school students, challenges students to work in the style of the Chasing Coral production team: diving into complex, autonomous research according to their own curiosities and embarking on a creative expression of their discoveries.
The curriculum, which culminates in a class exhibit, develops leadership skills in students so they can chase environmental issues in their own communities and become agents for positive change.
Download the Unstoppable Schools Project below to experiment with new modes of project-based learning, explore the film’s themes with enriching classroom discussions, and inspire students to discover what’s happening in their own local ecosystems…and how to change it.
Features:
- Built for grades 6-12
- Can be used in science or humanities classes
- Builds skills in critical thinking and project leadership while cultivating environmental literacy
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
“In my mind, all kids are born scientists. They’re born adventurers. They want to explore. If we can get kids to hold onto that curiosity, then our planet would be a much better place.”
– Zack Rago
Lesson plans
Short clips
Our pre- and post- screening lesson plans, designed for middle and high schoolers, are one-day classroom modules that facilitate mastery of skills such as observation, evidence-based conjecture, critical thinking, and more.
If you don’t have time to show the full film in your classroom, our friends at DocAcademy have broken Chasing Coral into five clips, all under 10 minutes. Simply sign up for a free account on their website to access.
Ocean portal
Virtual reality
The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History curates activities, lessons and teacher-tested ocean science materials to bring the ocean to life for your students. Visit their website to learn more.
Few people ever get a chance to visit coral reefs firsthand. With this 6-minute virtual reality dive, students can join Zack Rago to explore Lizard Island and examine the impacts of bleaching beneath the waves.
“In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.”
– Baba Dioum