1-Pager
High School Grade  Project 2 weeks

Eco Explorers: Real-World Wonders!

John T
LS.Bio.4.1
LS.Bio.4.2
LS.Bio.5.1
LS.Bio.5.2
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse high school students in the study of ecology through hands-on, real-world experiences. By creating digital simulations and engaging with local ecosystems, students will develop a deep understanding of energy flow and matter cycling. This project aims to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students explore sustainable solutions to ecological challenges, ultimately preparing them to contribute positively to environmental conservation efforts.

Learning goals

Students will develop digital ecosystem models to illustrate energy flow and matter cycling, applying computational thinking and mathematical analysis to simulate interactions and stability. Through peer review and collaboration with community partners, students will refine their models and engage in evidence-based arguments to assess human impact on biodiversity. The project aims to foster critical thinking and creativity as students design sustainable ecosystems, culminating in a community exhibition showcasing their photojournalism work and digital portfolios.
Standards
  • LS.Bio.4.1 - Use models to illustrate how processes in organisms contribute to the flow of energy and the cycling of matter within an ecosystem.
  • LS.Bio.4.2 - Use models to explain the relationship between the flow of energy and cycling of matter among organisms in an ecosystem.
  • LS.Bio.5.1 - Use mathematics and computational thinking to explain how interactions between organisms (predator/prey, competition) affect carrying capacity and maintain stability in an ecosystem.
  • LS.Bio.5.2 - Engage in argument from evidence to evaluate various solutions to reduce the impact of human activities on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Products

Students will create digital simulations of ecosystem models, showcasing their understanding of energy flow and matter cycling. They will also develop a photojournalism project capturing images of local ecosystems, annotated with scientific explanations. These products will be compiled into a digital portfolio, which includes reflections and feedback, and presented at a community exhibition.

Launch

Begin the project with an 'Eco-Detective Scavenger Hunt' on the school grounds, where students search for clues related to ecosystem components and interactions. This activity will spark curiosity and engagement with the project content by encouraging students to explore and observe their environment firsthand. Students will document their findings and discuss initial observations, setting the stage for deeper exploration and understanding of energy flow and matter cycling in ecosystems.

Exhibition

Students will host a community exhibition where they present their digital portfolios, showcasing their ecosystem models, photojournalism projects, and reflections. This event will invite peers, teachers, and local environmental partners to engage in interactive discussions and provide feedback. The exhibition will feature a gallery walk, allowing visitors to explore the annotated photo series and digital simulations, fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices.