8th Grade Science Guide

8.3: Ecology 3 Dimensions & Progressions

Unit 3

Activity: The Biosphere & Nutrient Cycles in the Ecosystem

Objective

Overview

Materials

●​ I can identify and

●​ Have students watch the lesson about the carbon cycle, complete the Think, Dig Deeper sections. A Ted account is needed to access all of the additional materials, but is a free account. ●​ Students read an article about the Biosphere and Nutrient Cycling.

●​ Video ●​ The Biosphere & Nutrient Cycles ●​ Graphic Organizer

describe the carbon cycle including the connections between photosynthesis and respiration.

Activity: Micro:bit Importance of Soil Moisture in an Ecosystem

Objective

Overview

Materials

●​ I can make connections between ecosystem changes and stability of matter. ●​ I can make connections

●​ Students read about soil moisture, and then create a device to monitor soil moisture so we stop overwatering lawns/plants to help with the drought.

●​ https://www.drought.gov /what-is-drought/soil-moi sture-and-drought article ●​ Soil Moisture Lesson ●​ Micro:bit ●​ Chromebook

between drought conditions and soil

moisture, and how to stop overwater to save water during a drought.

Activity: Climate Action Kit: Habitat Monitoring

Objective

Overview

Materials

●​ I n this lesson, students will build and use a sensor-based device to monitor environmental conditions in local

●​ I can use a device to monitor environmental conditions in local habitats.

●​ Climate Action Kit ●​ Micro:bit ●​ Chromebook ●​ Lesson: Habitat Monitoring

habitats. They can take this device on field trips to save data on habitat temperature, soil moisture, and light levels.