Earth Systems
Explore a variety of habitats looking for examples of interactions within and between the various spheres.
- Systems Scavenger Hunt Length: 2 hours
Through an interactive scavenger hunt, where data is collected and recorded, students discover that the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere interact in many different ways. They are able to see first hand interactions both within a system and between various systems. Students will gain an understanding of the components of each system and how they can interact.
Fall or Spring – Outdoors at BEEC
NGSS: ESS2.A
Ecosystem Essentials
Combine in-class presentations with hiking experiences and an interactive model to study the dynamic relationships between the biotic and abiotic features found in all ecosystems.
- Intro to Ecosystem Structures Length: 1 hour
As a prelude to the field trip, students are introduced to the structures of an ecosystem; learning about the types, features and interactions that can be found in any ecosystem.
Any time of year – In Classroom
NGSS: LS2.A, LS1.C, PS3.D - Predator Prey Model Length: 2 hours
This guided simulation activity is designed to model the interdependent relationships in an ecosystem. Through the course of an active simulation, students gain an understanding of the predator/prey relationship that animals exhibit in both a forest and field ecosystem. Students are assigned a role in the food web, conduct the simulation by becoming their animal, and assess factors affecting their survival at the end of the game. The program wraps up with a group discussion on changes in an environment that may be helpful to some organisms and harmful to others.
Any time of year – Outdoors
NGSS: LS2.A, LS1.C, PS3.D - Intro to Tracks & Signs 1.0 Length: 1 hour
Students learn the basic skills of the art of tracking and investigate samples of prints, scat, and other signs.
Winter – Classroom
NGSS: LS2.A, LS2.B - Tracks & Signs of Ecosystem Interactions Length: 1 – 2 hours
Students explore outdoors to discover evidence of ecosystem interactions through the tracks and signs that animals leave behind.
Winter – Outdoors
NGSS: LS2.A, LS2.B