Unit 2: 2. Ecosystem Dynamics

HS-LS2-6. Evaluate claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.

STUDENTS WILL:

EXPLORE THE FOLLOWING SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING PRACTICES:

- Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
- Developing and Using Models


HAVE DISCOURSE ON THE FOLLOWING DISCIPLINARY CORE IDEAS:

LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience
A complex set of interactions within an ecosystem can keep its numbers and types of organisms relatively constant over long periods of time under stable conditions. If a modest biological or physical disturbance to an ecosystem occurs, it may return to its more or less original status (i.e., the ecosystem is resilient), as opposed to becoming a very different ecosystem. Extreme fluctuations in conditions or the size of any population, however, can challenge the functioning of ecosystems in terms of resources and habitat availability. (HS-LS2-2),(HS-LS2-6)
Moreover, anthropogenic changes (induced by human activity) in the environment—including habitat destruction, pollution, introduction of invasive species, overexploitation, and climate change—can disrupt an ecosystem and threaten the survival of some species. (HS-LS2-7)

LS2.D: Social Interactions and Group Behavior
Group behavior has evolved because membership can increase the chances of survival for individuals and their genetic relatives. (HS-LS2-8)

OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING CROSS CUTTING CONCEPTS:

- PATTERNS
- CAUSE AND EFFECT

GS 3a, b, c, d:  MODELING - Students can construct and use models to represent and analyze phenomena and systems.

GS 4a, b, c, d, e:  DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION - Students can analyze and interpret scientific data and solve problems using a range of tools, technology, and mathematical techniques.