Saving Sand Dunes

Teach about natural phenomena with this third grade reading selection!

Every summer I love to visit the sand dunes around the mid-Atlantic beaches. I'm old enough to remember when replacing the dunes in Ocean City, Maryland and Bethany Beach, Delaware was a big controversy! The story of sand dunes is an excellent way to show several key environmental literacy standards, such as that humans have the ability to help or harm the environment, and that environments change over time. 

From a reading teacher point of view, this text shows a very quick and friendly problem and solution. 

Reading level: Third grade

NGSS science connection: ESS3B, "A variety of natural hazards result from natural processes. Humans cannot eliminate natural hazards but can take steps to reduce their impacts."

For student-ready activities and formatting, check out the entire activity here.

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Saving Sand Dunes

 People love to visit barrier islands. And why shouldn’t they? Barrier islands have sandy beaches. Barrier islands have fun waves. Barrier islands have interesting wildlife.

Unfortunately, sometimes people love barrier islands a little too much. Barrier islands have been transformed from wild places into developed towns.  People removed sand dunes to add hotels, parking lots, restaurants, and houses. Everyone wanted to have a place right next to the ocean.

 But removing sand dunes may not always be a good idea. As it turns out, sand dunes are a very important part of a barrier island. Dunes absorb the energy from the ocean waves. During a storm, dunes can help to protect the rest of the barrier island from high waves. Dunes also provide an important place for animals to live.

Today, many people realize how important sand dunes can be for barrier islands. In some places, scientists and engineers have replaced sand dunes. They have built new dunes and planted special grasses to help protect the barrier islands.  People have put fences around the sand dunes and posted signs to tell people about how important the sand dunes are.

Building new dunes has two important benefits. The dunes help to protect barrier islands from storms. The dunes also provide a home for plants and animals. Sand dunes are more than just piles of sand! 

by Emily Kissner

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