Subject: Science
Grade Level: Grade 7
Objective: Describe the different ecological relationships found in an ecosystem.
Learning across the curriculum:
- Mathematics: Students can calculate population growth rates and analyze data related to
ecological relationships.
- English: Students can write a report or create a presentation on a specific ecological
relationship.
- Social Studies: Students can research and discuss how ecological relationships impact
human societies and economies.
Elicit:
- Ask students to brainstorm and share what they already know about ecosystems and
ecological relationships.
- Show images or videos of various ecosystems to spark curiosity and discussion.
- Conduct a quick quiz or game to assess prior knowledge.
Engage:
1. Show a short video clip of a predator-prey interaction and ask students to identify the
ecological relationship involved.
2. Conduct a class debate on the importance of symbiotic relationships in maintaining
ecosystem balance.
3. Play a game where students act as different organisms in an ecosystem and have to find
their ecological partners.
Explore:
Activity 1: Ecological Relationship Sorting
Materials: Pictures or cards representing different ecological relationships (predation,
mutualism, commensalism, parasitism, competition)
Instructions:
1. Divide the class into small groups.
2. Distribute the pictures or cards to each group.
3. Instruct students to sort the pictures/cards into the correct ecological relationship
categories.
4. Discuss the correct answers as a class.
Rubric:
- Correctly sorted ecological relationships: 3 points
- Explanation of each ecological relationship: 2 points
Assessment Questions:
1. What is the difference between mutualism and commensalism?
2. Give an example of a predator-prey relationship.
Activity 2: Case Study Analysis
Materials: Case studies related to ecological relationships (can be printed or projected)
Instructions:
1. Provide each group with a different case study.
2. Instruct students to read and analyze the case study, identifying the ecological relationships
involved.
3. Ask groups to present their findings to the class.
Rubric:
- Accurate identification of ecological relationships: 3 points
- Clear explanation of how the relationships impact the ecosystem: 2 points
Assessment Questions:
1. How does the relationship between bees and flowers benefit both organisms?
2. Explain how competition affects the population sizes of competing species.
Activity 3: Ecosystem Role Play
Materials: Costumes or props representing different organisms in an ecosystem
Instructions:
1. Assign each student a role of a specific organism in an ecosystem (e.g., producer,
consumer, decomposer).
2. Instruct students to interact and act out the ecological relationships they have with other
organisms in the ecosystem.
3. Encourage students to discuss and reflect on the importance of each role in maintaining the
ecosystem's balance.
Rubric:
- Accurate portrayal of ecological relationships: 3 points
- Clear understanding of the role and impact of each organism: 2 points
Assessment Questions:
1. What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?
2. How do producers and consumers depend on each other?
Explain:
1. Lecture: Provide a detailed explanation of each ecological relationship, using examples and
visuals.
2. Group discussion: Engage students in a guided discussion where they can ask questions
and share their understanding of ecological relationships.
Elaborate:
1. Research project: Assign students to research and create a presentation on a specific
ecological relationship, including its importance and examples in real-world ecosystems.
2. Field trip or virtual tour: Take students to a local ecosystem or provide a virtual tour to
observe and analyze ecological relationships in action.
Evaluate:
- Multiple-choice or short-answer test on ecological relationships.
- Group project where students create a poster or infographic showcasing different ecological
relationships and their impacts.
Extend:
- Guest speaker: Invite a local ecologist or biologist to give a talk on the importance of
ecological relationships.
- Community service project: Have students participate in a local environmental conservation
initiative to understand the practical applications of ecological relationships.
Assignment:
Write a reflection paper discussing the significance of ecological relationships in maintaining
a healthy ecosystem. Include real-life examples and personal insights.
By following this 7Es lesson plan format, teachers can effectively engage students in learning
about ecological relationships while incorporating various subjects and promoting active
participation and critical thinking.