Coastal Brainstorm

In this lesson, you will build an understanding of what the coast is and why it is such an important place for both nature and people. Explore how land and sea interact to create dynamic coastal environments shaped by waves, weather, plants, animals, and human activity. Through a brainstorming activity, you will identify different coastal environments  around the world, as well as the many challenges these areas face. 

The coast is the area where the land and the sea meet. It can also be called the shore, coastline, seaside, or waterfront. Because land and ocean interact here, coastal environments are constantly changing. Waves crash along most shorelines about 10,000 times each day, releasing energy that shapes beaches, cliffs, wetlands, and other coastal features.

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Coastal areas are also where many people live. More than 40% of the world’s population lives within about 100 kilometers (60 miles) of the coast, often in fast-growing coastal cities. This means coastal environments are influenced by both natural forces and human activities.

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In this activity, you will brainstorm different types of coastal environments and coastal challenges that face these environments. Let's get started!

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Take a piece of paper and fold it in half. On one side, label it in large letters 'Coastal Environments'. On the other side, label it 'Coastal Challenges'. Now, take some time to brainstorm and think about different types of coastal environments all around the world. Some examples are sandy beaches, mangroves, or cliffs! Think about places you maybe have traveled to, warm or cold places, or places that are found nearby. 

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Next, brainstorm coastal challenges on the other half of the paper. There are many challenges that these environments face, but some examples are pollution, storms, or waves! How many challenges can you think of?

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In the supporting file, you can find a slideshow of photographs of environments and challenges with descriptions. We do not recommend printing this document, but it can be used to aid the brainstorm!