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In this research project, students will:
- Learn more about a problem within a local ecosystem
- Discover what solutions have already been tried (if any)
- Suggest a solution to the ecological issue
- Use the teacher’s choice of a website tool to create a presentation
This student handout includes:
- Detailed introduction and instructions
- 10 Suggested research topics that are universal to many ecosystems (chemical contamination, invasive species, watershed pollution, etc)
- “Research Organizer” to help students organize their information and focus their thinking
- Student-friendly grading rubric
Teachers will appreciate this project because the instructions and expectations are simple and straightforward. The rubric is uncomplicated. And, the included graphic organizer makes it easy for a wide range of students to organize what they are learning as they perform their research.
While the problems listed are applicable to any area, it’s always great if a teacher adds a few very specific local problems to the list. This is not necessary, however, and the project can easily be assigned “as is” no matter where you live.
Teacher Notes:
- This human impact on the environment project helps to support MS-LS2-5, MS-ESS3-3, Hs-ESS3-4, or HS-LS2-7.
- NGSS Science & Engineering Practice: Constructing explanations and designing solutions
- NGSS Science & Engineering Practice: Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
- Check out more resources in the ecology section of our shop!
- You can also shop our TPT store!
Related Standards:
- NGSS MS-ESS3-3: Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
- NGSS MS-LS2-5: Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
