SEEd - Grade 6
Lesson Plans

Strand 6.4: STABILITY AND CHANGE IN ECOSYSTEMS

The study of ecosystems includes the interaction of organisms with each other and with the physical environment. Consistent interactions occur within and between species in various ecosystems as organisms obtain resources, change the environment, and are affected by the environment. This influences the flow of energy through an ecosystem, resulting in system variations. Additionally, ecosystems benefit humans through processes and resources, such as the production of food, water and air purification, and recreation opportunities. Scientists and engineers investigate interactions among organisms and evaluate design solutions to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem resources.

Standard 6.4.1

Analyze data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations in an ecosystem. Ask questions to predict how changes in resource availability affects organisms in those ecosystems. Examples could include water, food, and living space in Utah environments. (LS2.A)

• UT.SEEd.6.4.1 E.1
  Nearpod version of UT.SEEd.6.4.1 Episode 1 from seedstorylines.org. Students will construct an explanation of why deer population change over time.
• UT.SEEd.6.4.1 E.2
  Nearpod version of UT.SEEd.6.4.1 Episode 2 from seedstorylines.org. Students will analyze populations of hummingbirds and nectar producing flowers data to determine fluctuation in population numbers.
• UT.SEEd.6.4.1 E.3
  Nearpod version of UT.SEEd.6.4.1 Episode 3 from seedstorylines.org . Students will construct an explanation for the effects of resource availability of the June Sucker population in Utah Lake.
• UT.SEEd.6.4.1 E.4
  Nearpod version of UT.SEEd.6.4.1 Episode 4 from seedstorylines.org . Students will construct an explanation of why Mountain Plover numbers fluctuate and construct a graph.
• What is killing these trees?
  Students will define the problem by identifying dead pine trees in aerial images of the Uinta Mountains. They'll determine whether the amount of dead trees currently found is significantly different than the historic average and identify the resources a tree needs to survive along with clues that can tell them which resources the trees may not be getting. Students will analyze tree samples and images to gather evidence that can help explain what's happening to these trees. Finally, they will use historical temperature and precipitation data to develop an explanation for why this montane environment is changing.
  NHMU Research Quests are phenomena-based, online investigations asynchronously led by museum educators and scientists that are rooted in museum research and collections. Resources include teacher instructional guides, formative and summative assessments, and student notebooks. A free educator acount is required to access the materials.

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Milo  Maughan and see the Science - Secondary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.