Organism X: Ecology Project 2014
Name:
PART B: Population Growth Curves
Due Date:
Part B: What factors are necessary for the population of Organism X to
grow? What limits the growth of the population?
TASK:
On graph paper, complete the following:
1. Create 2 graphs that could represent the population of your Organism X at some point
in time. One graph will show an exponential curve and the second graph will show a
logistic curve. Clearly label the type of graph shown.
a. Each graph needs to be neat (with straight lines) and large (1/2 page).
b. Each graph needs to be labeled with TAILS complete (Title “MV vs. RV”, Axes
labeled, Increments consistent, Labels include units, Scale/data fits the graph
well)
In a typed document, complete the following:
2. Write a realistic, reasonable scenario for Organism X that could explain the population
curve shown in each graph. You will write a separate scenario for each graph exponential and logistic.
a. For each curve explain at least 3 environmental conditions (biotic and abiotic
factors) that contribute to the population growth, stabilization or decline. The
environmental conditions used in one scenario may not be repeated in
the second scenario.
b. If possible, establish and identify the carrying capacity (K) for the graph. If it is
not possible to establish and identify the carrying capacity (K) for the graph,
then discuss why that is so.
c. To relate certain parts of your story to a particular point or segment of the
graph, label your graph with a letter “A”, “B” or “C” and use those same labels
in your written scenario.
Exceeding
LS2B
LS2C
Population
Graph
Discussion
of graph
The graphs take into
account background
information about the
organism’s true
population status in the
wild, and the source is
cited in the explanatory
scenario.
Explanation of
environmental factors
and carrying capacity
are very clear and
detailed.
Meeting
1. Graph is neat, large and labeled
with the type of curve shown.
2. “TAILS” is complete.
3. Each scenario realistically and
reasonably describes the
population curve.
4. Each scenario reasonably
identifies relevant environmental
factors (biotic and abiotic)
contributing to the changing
population curve.
5. Carrying capacity is accurately
discussed and/or identified.
6. Points or segments of the graph
are labeled and clearly referenced
in the written scenario.
Approaching
Beginning
Graph requirements are
partially met.
Graph requirements are
mostly not met.
Only one scenario meets
the requirements or both
scenarios partially meet
the requirements.
Scenario descriptions are
vague or unreasonable as
an explanation of the
population curve.
Carrying capacity
discussion and
identification is partially
correct.
Carrying capacity
discussion and
identification is incorrect
or missing.
Points or segments of the
graph are not labeled or
easily references in the
written scenario.
Points or segments of the
graph are not labeled or
easily references in the
written scenario.