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Ecosystems

Students will discover differences within three different ecosystems through observation by using AppleWorks.

Objectives

  • Students will know that there are many different plants and animals living in many different kinds of environments by observing similarities and differences within several different environments within their community.
  • Students will understand the concrete representation of quarter percents by figuring out the amount of dirt in their plot of land.
  • Students will use an estimation strategy and determine the reasonableness of the results by estimating the amount of grass in the whole plot.
  • Students will solve a problem by generating, collecting, organizing, displaying, and analyzing data using a bar graph.
  • Students will create an expository response in which ideas and details follow an organizational pattern and are relavent to the purpose by writing a report based on their observations and data.

Procedure

  • Create one foot by one foot plots of land in three different ecosystems (one each day of the project).
  • Partner students and have them follow the directions on the worksheet.
  • Collect the data and enter it into the chart.
  • Generate a chart from the data in the chart.
  • After the three days of data collection, write a paragraph about each ecosystem using the observations and data. Also write a paragraph comparing the three ecosystems.

Sunshine State Standards

  • LA.B.2.2.1
  • MA.A.1.2.3
  • MA.A.4.2.1
  • MA.E.1.2.1
  • MA.E.1.2.2
  • SC.G.1.2.7
  • SC.H.1.2.2

NETS Profiles for Technology Literate Students

  • Use keyboards and other common input and output devices (including adaptive devices when necessary) efficiently and effectively.
  • Discuss common uses of technology in daily life and the advantages and disadvantages those uses provide.
  • Use general purpose productivity tools and peripherals to support personal productivity, remediate skill deficits, and facilitate learning throughout the curriculum.
  • Use technology resources (e.g., calculators, data collection probes, videos, educational software) for problem solving, self-directed learning, and extended learning activities.
  • Evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias of electronic information sources.

Materials

  • iBook or a wireless computer
  • AppleWorks

Downloads

Alternatives/Extensions

  • Scan a living and non-living item from their plot to share with their presentation.


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