Mission Library

Ecosystem Patterns
Ecosystems
Grades 3, 6-8

The Mission
47 min

Storyline

Students will analyze ecosystems to determine the best solution to help the organisms thrive.

The Industrial Sector currently has animals and plants that should be thriving but are currently teetering on the brink of destruction if we don't intervene. There is some instability in the ecosystems that needs to be ironed out. The crew will need to investigate the ecosystems in question and come up with the best solutions to correct the problems there. This is a follow-up mission to the "Relocation Round-Up" mission, but can also stand alone.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

Patterns in interactions among organisms maintain healthy ecosystems.

Science and Engineering Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Students conduct scans and gather data on the different planets to understand the current state of their ecosystems.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Students use the collected data to identify ecosystem patterns and make evidence-based decisions to solve challenges.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

Students discuss their findings and make decisions collaboratively based on the evidence collected during their investigations.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

Students communicate their findings and decisions to address the challenges in the ecosystems to prevent further damage.

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns

Students observe patterns in the ecosystems of different planets and use data to make informed decisions about potential challenges.

Cause and Effect

Students analyze the impact of different factors on the ecosystems, such as invasive species, competition, and mutualism.

Systems and System Models

Students explore the interconnectedness of organisms in ecosystems and identify how changes in one element can affect the entire system.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

LS1.A: Structure and Function

The crew investigates the structures and functions of different organisms and their roles in the ecosystems on the planets in the Vespus star system.

LS1.C: Organization for Matter and Energy Flow in Organisms

The crew explores the flow of matter and energy in the ecosystems, including the interactions between organisms and their environments.

LS1.D: Information Processing

The crew processes information from their scans and investigations to make decisions about how to address ecosystem challenges.

LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

The crew investigates the interdependent relationships between organisms and their environments on the different planets in the Vespus star system.

LS2.B: Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems

The crew analyzes the cycles of matter and energy transfer within the ecosystems on each planet to understand their functioning.

Resources
Targeted Standards
Timeline
Skills in Action