Native vs Exotic Fish

Summary

Students will engage in a simulation game where they model feeding styles of fish and how fish compete for food.

Materials

• student page (attached)
• a cup or more of small food items (cereal, mini-marshmellows, jelly beans, candy fish, macaroni etc) per group of 6 students
• plastic forks, knives, spoons
• masking tape
• straws
• toothpicks
• paper cups
• butcher paper for each table

Background for Teachers

Teachers should not expect students to eat the food. Some students will eagerly eat it but after it has been handled, most students would rather not. A variety of soft and hard food provides the most interest.

Instructional Procedures

1. Read the purpose and background with students.
2. Have students spread butcher paper across table.
3. Have students each pick up their "mouth part" and read the procedures to illustrate their use.
4. Distribute food items.
5. When all groups are ready, time the first round of food gathering.
6. Have students record data and repeat timing until all rounds are done. They will do two rounds with only native fish and then introduce the exotics. You may wish to introduce the exotic fish one round at a time.
7. Discuss student results before allowing students time to work on analysis questions.

Bibliography

Lesson Design by Jordan School District Teachers and Staff.