Informational Text - Worksheet 1

The ocean covers more than seventy percent of Earth's surface. It is home to millions of plants and animals. From tiny plankton to enormous whales, the ocean is full of amazing life. The ocean has different zones based on depth. Near the surface, sunlight warms the water and many fish swim. Deeper down, the water is cold and dark. Strange creatures with glowing bodies live in the deepest parts of the ocean. Coral reefs are one of the most important ocean habitats. They are built by tiny animals called coral polyps. Coral reefs provide food and shelter for thousands of species. Scientists call them the rainforests of the sea. The ocean gives us food, oxygen, and even helps control the weather. But pollution and warming temperatures are hurting ocean life. Scientists say we must protect the ocean to keep our planet healthy.