Interdependence of Life: How an ecosystem responds to change
Summary
In this biology field investigation, students investigate the site of a local disturbance such as tree fallen in a forested area. Students will identify plant and animal life within a specific area containing the fallen tree and compare it to an adjoining forested area. Students will map both areas. Students will write a lab report including their data and an interpretation of the current situation at the site.
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Learning Goals
1. Students will analyze a local ecosystem and be able to extend their understanding of the results to larger environmental disturbances.
2. Student will use a taxonomic key to identify plant and animal species.
3. Students will understand that environmental disruptions change what plants and animals will live in a given area.
2. Student will use a taxonomic key to identify plant and animal species.
3. Students will understand that environmental disruptions change what plants and animals will live in a given area.
Context for Use
This activity is for gifted students in a multi-age classroom spanning grades 7-12 consisting of 24 students. Student should have experience using a taxonomic key prior to this experience.
Description and Teaching Materials
Students are taken to an area where a disturbance has occurred, i.e. a fallen tree, a beaver dam or the site of a flood. The disturbance will not be identified. Students will create a map of the area that includes type of soil and earth formations. Utilizing taxonomic keys students will compile a list of the living things inhabiting the area. The five species that are most populous will be highlighted. Students will be asked to compare their site to a nearby site without the unidentified disturbance. With both observations in hand, students will divide into small teams and will attempt to tell a story of what makes their site different and the evidence that backs up their ideas. Compasses or GPS units may be helpful but the primary source of data is the student observations.
Assessment
Each student will write a reflection with the collective data attached. Teams of students will report back to the class with their interpretation of the site. Further discussion may include a discussion of what occurs as the disturbances are increased in magnitude.
Standards
The student will describe how the environment and interactions between organisms can affect the number of species and the diversity of species in an ecosystem.
7.IV.C.1-carrying capacity
7.IV.C.2-populations
7.IV.C.3-ecosystem
7.IV.C.4-carrying capacity prediction
7.IV.C.1-carrying capacity
7.IV.C.2-populations
7.IV.C.3-ecosystem
7.IV.C.4-carrying capacity prediction