Case Study of Nitrogen in various parts of the Nitrogen cycle: How nitrogen affects human activity and the Environment

Andrew Marry, Amy Moberg, Steve Polson, and Ann Domagala
Author Profile

This is a partially developed activity description. It is included in the collection because it contains ideas useful for teaching even though it is incomplete.

Summary

In this activity, students will be exposed to aspects of many disciplines of biology to understand how interconnected ALL of the many microcosms of science courses are actually interrelated. By a detailed investigation of the nitrogen cycle, students will gain detailed understanding of plant biology, ecology, environmental science, chemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and medical implications.

Used this activity? Share your experiences and modifications

Learning Goals

  • Understand the interdisciplinary facets of a fundamental issue in biology
  • Interconnectivity of the subject of nitrogen.
    • Plant uptake (Biology)
    • Toxic levels of nitrogen in plants due to environmental conditions– affect on secondary consumers (ecology)
    • Algal blooms- changing ecosystems of lakes and rivers (environmental)
    • Medical advantages of red algae (medical)
    • Nitrogen issues in herbivores (physiology)
    • Involuntary abortion of herbivores (medical)
    • Nutrient transfer of nitrogen from one species to another (ecology)
    • Formation of nitrous oxide in plants and animals (physiology/pharmacology)

Context for Use


Description and Teaching Materials

Short Case Study of Nitrogen cycle (Microsoft Word 25kB Oct25 08)

Teaching Notes and Tips

Assessment