Reading · Grade 5
The Great Barrier Reef
Name Date Score
Off the coast of Australia lies the largest coral reef on Earth, the Great Barrier Reef. It stretches for more than 2,300 kilometers and can even be seen from space. Although it looks like colorful rock, coral is actually made by millions of tiny living animals called polyps. The reef is home to thousands of species, including fish, turtles, and sharks. Sadly, warmer ocean water can harm the coral, so scientists work hard to protect this natural wonder.
Where is the Great Barrier Reef?
About how long is the reef?
What actually makes coral?
Name two animals that live at the reef.
What can harm the coral?
Answer Key
- Off the coast of Australia.
- More than 2,300 kilometers.
- Tiny living animals called polyps.
- Any two: fish, turtles, sharks.
- Warmer ocean water.