Causal patterns in ecosystems: lessons to infuse into ecosystems units to enable deeper understanding

Subjects:

Science Earth science. Ecosystems. Educational improvement. Educational issues. General science. Life Science.

Resource Type:
Lessons and activities.

Abstract:
This curriculum module, designed for grades 5 and up, contains six sections that explore the nature of different patterns of causality in ecosystems. The sequential sections deal with the domino causality of food webs, the cyclic causality of rates of decay, and the two-way causality of the dynamic properties of ecosystems. Inquiry-based lesson plans are suggested for each section. Objectives, strategies, background information, reinforcement activities, follow-up questions, and REveal CAusal STructure (RECAST) activities and thinking exercises are provided. RECAST activities and thinking exercises have been designed by the curriculum developers to aid students in the understanding of causal patterns that scientists use when investigating ecosystems. A simulated teacher-student dialogue, contained in text boxes within each section, aids in formulating discussion. Color photographs and illustrations are found throughout the text. A link to a computer simulation of predator-prey population levels is also provided.

One activity applies the domino causality to food webs. Illustrations of more than one organism, instead of an individual organism, are used to reinforce the concept of food webs affecting populations rather than individuals. Using a series of dominos to represent populations of producers, consumers, and decomposers, students explore food webs and then predict what would occur to the food web if a certain domino is removed. (Author/ALK)

Table of Contents:
[Text:]
Introduction
Section 1. Understanding the connectedness of ecosystems using domino causality
Section 2. Learning about decay using cyclic causality
Section 3. Thinking about obvious and non-obvious causes of decomposition
Section 4. Decay takes time: detecting causal relationships despite temporal delays
Section 5. Understanding two-way causality in ecosystems
Section 6. Understanding balance and flux in ecosystems

Vendor: Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education 5th Floor 124 Mt. Auburn Street Cambridge MA 02138 (617) 495-4342 Fax: (617) 495-9709 http://www.pz.harvard.edu/

Pricing Information:

Description: 1 text (spiral-bound)

Cost: $50.00

Publisher:
Harvard University. Graduate School of Education. Project Zero

Contributor(s):

Author: Tina Grotzer.

Funding Agency:
National Science Foundation (NSF).

Specifications:
1 text (198 pages, spiral-bound : color illustrations ; 28 cm.)

Record Created: 02/11/2005 Last Modified: 07/28/2005