The Importance of Biodiversity

Exploring the Web of Life Grade 5 Science & ELA Understanding Our Living World

What is Biodiversity?

Bio = Life, Diversity = Variety All the different plants, animals, and tiny organisms Found in forests, oceans, deserts, and cities Every living thing has a special role

Biodiversity Around the World

Why Do We Need Biodiversity?

{"left":"Plants give us oxygen to breathe\nAnimals help plants reproduce\nDifferent species provide food and medicine\nEcosystems clean our water and air","right":"Each species has a unique job\nWhen one disappears, others are affected\nBiodiversity makes ecosystems stronger\nVariety helps life survive changes"}

Food Web Detective

Draw connections between living things Start with the sun as energy source Show who eats what Include plants, herbivores, and carnivores What happens if one species disappears?

Think and Discuss

What would happen if all the bees disappeared? How would this affect plants? How would this affect other animals? How would this affect humans?

Threats to Biodiversity

Habitat destruction (cutting down forests) Pollution in air, water, and soil Climate change affecting temperatures Invasive species taking over Overhunting and overfishing

How Can We Help?

Create wildlife gardens with native plants Reduce, reuse, and recycle materials Use less water and energy Support conservation organizations Learn about local wildlife Share knowledge with family and friends