Ecosystems: Connections, Changes, and Consequences

Understanding the living and non-living world around us Grade 8 Science 50-minute exploration

What is an Ecosystem?

Living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components All parts interact and depend on each other Examples: forests, lakes, deserts, your backyard

Biotic vs. Abiotic Factors

{"left":"Plants (producers)\nAnimals (consumers)\nBacteria and fungi (decomposers)\nSunlight","right":"Water\nSoil\nTemperature\nAir"}

Build Your Ecosystem Web

Work in groups of 5 students Use index cards to represent organisms and abiotic factors Connect cards with string to show relationships Discuss: What happens if one component is removed?

Food Web Connections

Ecosystem Simulation Lab

Use tablets to explore ecosystem changes Modify one factor (water, population, etc.) Record observations and data Predict real-world consequences

Evidence-Based Arguments

Based on your simulation data, what claims can you make? How do ecosystem changes affect populations? What evidence supports your reasoning?

Human Impact and Action

Ecosystems are vulnerable to human activities Small changes can have big consequences We can make positive choices to protect ecosystems Exit ticket: One impact and one action you can take