Planning Index: Interactions & Ecosystems |
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Grade 7 Science Unit Plan Unit A - Interaction and Ecosystems (emphasis on Social and Environmental context)
Grade 7 Unit Overview (Alberta) Ecosystems develop and are maintained by natural processes and are impacted by human action. To foster an understanding of ecosystems, this unit develops students' awareness of their components and interactions, as well as natural cycles and processes of change. Building on this knowledge, students investigate human impacts, and engage in studies that involve environmental monitoring and research. By reflecting on their findings, students become aware of the intended and unintended consequences of human activity, and recognize the need for responsible decision making and action.
Concepts Covered and Developed through Instruction
- interactions and interdependencies
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- producers, consumers, decomposers
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- nutrient cycles and energy flow
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What do the students already know?
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How do students think we can affect an ecosystem? Can they explain how we can monitor and reduce our impact on ecosystems?
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What must they Learn?
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Sustainability in balanced ecosystems
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General Learner Outcome
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Specific Learner Outcomes
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Instructional Focus
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Investigate and describe relationships between humans and their environments, and identify related issues and scientific questions
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1.0
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- meeting needs - interaction/interdendency - human impacts - decision making |
Graphic Organizers Inspiration Lab Activities Issue Investigation - Role Plays Problem Solving
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Focus 2
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Ecosystem Energy Flow
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Trace and interpret the flow of energy and materials within an ecosystem
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2.0
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- biotic/abiotic - producers, consumers, decomposers - energy and nutrient storage - recycling nutrients - food webs - carbon cycle/water cycle - ecosystem pollution and bioaccumulation |
Comparison of Factors Predator-Prey Game Graphic Organizers Inspiration Lab Activities
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Focus 3
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Ecosystem Monitoring
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Monitor local ecosystems and assess impacts of environmental factors on the growth, health and reproduction of organisms within those environments
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3.0
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- distribution of organisms - population fluctuations - succession |
Textual Resources / Reports / Internet Scientific Studies Lab Activities
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Describe the relationships among knowledge, decisions and actions in maintaining life-supporting environments
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4.0
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- consequences - scientific investigations - limited action - local issue |
Scientific Reports / Eco-Groups Lab Activities Demonstrations / Presentations Debate/Forum
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