Outdoor Ecosystem Field Study

Ashton·

Ecosystems

Preview

At a Glance

SubjectEcosystems

Original Prompt

“Outdoor Ecosystem observations” Students will transition outside to observe a natural area on campus( gardens, grassy areas, woodlines, courtyard). Each student will receive a structured observation checklist that includes ecosystem components such as soil, plants, insects, animals, water sources, and human impacts. After returning to the classroom students will use their observations to engage in a guided discussion about ecosystem balance. Students will reflect on questions such as: What conn...

This resource focuses on an Outdoor Ecosystem Investigation aimed at helping students identify and analyze the components of ecosystems in their outdoor environment. The learning goal is for students to recognize both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors, as well as their interconnections. Success criteria include categorizing items as biotic or abiotic and identifying different roles within the ecosystem such as producers, consumers, and decomposers. The resource provides vocabulary definitions, safety procedures, an observation checklist, data collection tables, guided inquiry prompts, and collaborative discussion frameworks to encourage student engagement and understanding of ecosystem dynamics. It also emphasizes the impact of agriculture on ecosystem balance and fosters self-reflection on students' learning.