Once upon a time, there was a little crab named Carlos who lived in the intertidal zone by the ocean. One day, he noticed that the water level was much lower than usual, and he realized it was a neap tide.

But the next day, the water level had risen much higher, and Carlos learned that it was a spring tide. He was amazed at how much the water level changed between the two tides.

During the spring tide, Carlos explored new parts of the shore that were usually underwater and made many new friends with other creatures living in the intertidal zone. He also found lots of delicious food that was uncovered by the increased water level.

However, during the neap tide, Carlos had to be careful not to get stranded on land when the water receded. He learned to adapt to the changing tides and have fun exploring his home no matter what the water level was like.

The end.

Reflections

1. What is the intertidal zone and what lives there?
2. What is the difference between a neap tide and a spring tide?
3. How does Carlos adapt to the changing tides in his home?
4. Why is it important for animals in the intertidal zone to be able to adapt to changes in the water level?