KS3 Ecosystems

The course normally runs 10am – 3pm.  There will be an allocated lunch slot, the timing will depend on the final course programme.

Pre Course / Prior Learning 

• An awareness of ecosystems including relevant terminology.

Introduction 

• Welcome and Introduction
• Setting and sharing Objectives
• Starter: Introduce microhabitats, biotic and abiotic factors.

Morning 

• Investigation 1 – introduction to the habitat to be studied.
• Plan an investigation
  • making predictions.
  • plan and carry out a scientific enquiry to test predictions.
• Carry out an investigation:
  • use appropriate techniques and equipment,
  • make and record observations and measurements,
  • identify organisms using keys
  • measure abiotic factors.
• Analysis and evaluation
  • a verbal data review to interpret observations, draw conclusions, with reference to predictions.

Afternoon 

• Investigation 2 – the afternoon will be a second investigation in another habitat.
  • Alternative afternoon option: additional time can be taken investigating one habitat and spent on data analysis and evaluation.

Depart 

Key Stage 3, Science, Biology 

• Working Scientifically
  • Scientific attitudes
  • Experimental skills and investigations
  • Analysis and evaluation
• Interactions and interdependencies
  • Relationships in an ecosystem: the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs

• Develop personal skills
• Have fun
• Be inspired by a passion for the subject
• Build friendships