Format
1. begin with definition of an ecosystem
2. learn about the different biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem, as well as a discussion of how climate impacts ecosystems
3. students then discover what makes up a prairie ecosystem
4. next students help build a prairie food chain and draw their own along with the instructor
5. students view footage of animals in a riparian ecosystem in Colorado
6. students review key terms and can draw/create their own ecosystem
7. time for Q&A
Objectives
1. Students will learn that an ecosystem is made up of living and non-living things interacting and coexisting with one another.
2. Students will relate the concept of an ecosystem to local wildlife and habitats.
3. Students will identify producers, consumers and decomposers of a prairie ecosystem.
4. Students will demonstrate the energy cycle of a prairie ecosystem.
5. Students will discuss a few issues that might affect an entire ecosystem.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
Next Generation Science Standards: 2-LS4-1, 3-LS3-2,3-LS-4-3, 3-LS-4-4, 5-LS1-1, 5-LS-2-1,
5-PS3-1
State Standards
Colorado Academic Science Standards: Second Grade Life Science 2.1, 2.2; Third Grade Life Science 2.1, Earth Science 3.1; Fourth Grade Life Science2.1, 2.3; Fifth Grade Life Science2.1, Earth Science3.1