Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Design and conduct investigations to identify the effect that temperature, soil, water and air have on the process of decomposition. Discover how microbes that enhance decomposition are found in the air, water and soil.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures
Describe how turtle populations may be affected by a change in their natural climate. Develop a solution to the problems turtles in your local community could face as a result of climate change.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Research, take and defend a position on the question of why the giraffe population is threatened and which is more important: survival in a wildlife sanctuary or quality of life in the wild.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Wild Indonesia
Investigate propagation systems in plants, and explain the ways some animals disperse seeds through their digestive processes. Role-play and map the daily travels of one seed-bearing animal to explore the migration of seeds.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Explore the complexity of endangered species and zoo issues. Compare the benefits of keeping animals in zoos to the benefits of reintroducing animals to their natural habitats.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Evaluate the effectiveness of snails as a biological control to combat the spread of an alien alga in the Mediterranean. Grow and culture algal "mats" on microscope slides to observe the grazing behavior of pond snails.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore biologists' use of capture/recapture statistics and analysis of sampling techniques by estimating the population size of a tagged species. Use a mathematical model to uncover the total population of brown tree snakes in a sector.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Data Analysis/Probability. Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Perform an experiment to observe inadvertent transfer of organisms when new fish are transplanted into tropical aquariums. Apply this knowledge to explain how alien species can rapidly destroy the established ecological balance in an ecosystem.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Fish. Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Describe the Anamalai region's unique ecosystem and animal species, compare Anamalai with other high biodiversity regions of the world and hypothesize the environmental threats Anamalai might face.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Explore the great variety of animal behaviors by observing them in their natural habitats, and examine the relationship between people, animals and the environment.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: Energy Education for the 21st Century
Understand the basics of wind energy and power production by fabricating and testing various blade designs for table-top windmills. Consider the potential of wind energy as a clean, safe, perpetually renewable energy source.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Energy.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Investigate the role of the tiger in the culture and religion of India, and describe Indian efforts to protect this endangered species. Research the Indian environment and create a travel brochure for Bandhavgarh National Park.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology. Cultural Studies: Asian Studies. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Backyard Jungle
Observe the surrounding envirionment, and compare and contrast images of plants and wildlife. Investigate how human activity is affecting the natural world.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Investigate interactions that occur between living organisms and their ecosystem.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Survey the plants and animals present in a local ecosystem, and identify interactions between organisms.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Describe Buddhist beliefs and ecological principles, examine the allegory of the Four Harmonious Friends and its ideas of interdependence in and human respect for nature and compare current American culture's attitude toward ecology.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Cultural Studies: Asian Studies. Religion.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the types of environmental pressures a country such as Bhutan might face, discuss how Bhutan's Buddhist heritage has contributed to its attitudes toward environmental preservation and devise a long-range environmental plan for Bhutan.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Religion.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
List the organisms living at different altitudes in the Himalayan Mountains, identify different conditions that trigger migration patterns and analyze migration patterns of a selected species to present to the class.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Research the diet, habitat and behavior of polar bears, and compare and contrast the issues surrounding polar bears in their environment with those of bears in the U.S. Rocky Mountains. Rewrite a human/bear encounter from the bear's point of view.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Discuss issues of indoor and outdoor air quality. Compare and contrast the types of airborne particles inside and outside the school building by observing particles collected in glass jars over a one week period.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Examine how all living things have adaptations which enable them to live and survive where they do and identify the adaptations of animals in Utah's Canyonlands National Park.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Understand that animals adapt to abiotic and biotic conditions in their environment, some of which have evolved over a long period of time through the process of natural selection, and identify the adaptations of nocturnal animals in the Canyonlands.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Evolution.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: PBS 45 & 49: Ama-zone! The Rain Forest Project
Explore how adaptations of plants and animals allow them to survive in the rain forest.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Evolution.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey Into Amazonia
Identify rubber as a Brazilian rainforest product and explain how it is harvested. Describe the life and work of Chico Mendes and explain why his actions are important to preservation of parts of the Brazilian Amazon.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Botany. Ecology. Civics: Current Events/Issues. Sociology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Develop an understanding of the concept of "sustainability." Define the term "commons," and propose and justify solutions to excessive common resource depletion.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Evaluate National Marine Sanctuaries in terms of their contributions to sustainability.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Oceanography. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Examine why newly-formed lava has little plant life, explain why one generation of plant life allows subsequent plant life to grow in an area and determine why organic soil formation is a slow process.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Explore the different stages in the growth of a frog, explain why organisms produce large numbers of young and determine the survival rate of a population of tadpoles under controlled conditions.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Follow the scientific method: process scientific information, plan and conduct an experiment, observe the experiment and reach conclusions, by building a human-controlled, enclosed ecosystem.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Create a whale-sized drawing from a small-scale diagram to envision the true size of whales, while also learning about scale. Discuss real-life dilemmas about economic and environmental issues surrounding overfishing in Newfoundland.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Discover why rhinos are struggling to survive in the modern world. Examine how science is used to help maintain and increase rhinoceros populations.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Point of View
Consider whether oil drilling should be allowed in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, develop an argument from the perspective of a specific stakeholder affected by the action and conduct a debate about the issue.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Click "Download the Teacher Guide" to access the materials. Examine the diversity and interdependence of plants and animals in the jungle, and discuss how scientists are using new technologies to explore jungles.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Examine the predator/prey relationship between wolves and moose in Alaska's Denali National Park and discuss how the balance of nature works between these two animals.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the interdependecies and transfer of energy that exist in ecosystems. Explain the concepts of various vocabulary words related to ecosystems, and then diagram a local food web.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the vocabulary and concepts related to natural selection and identify the environmental and biological conditions necessary for adaptive radiation to occur. Build and explore a model of DNA hybridization.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Evolution.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the relationship between biotic factors and the abiotic factors of pH, and the salinity and dissolved oxygen within aquatic ecosystems. Collect and analyze aquatic samples from home and compare them to samples from the Galapagos Islands.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Microbiology. Oceanography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: PBS 45 & 49: Ama-zone! The Rain Forest Project
Simulate biodiversity and graphically illustrate the effect of clear-cutting forest areas locally as well as in the tropical rain forest.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore environmental impact of building of a dam in China's Yangtze River on endangered fresh water dolphins. Observe the presence and effects of osmotic pressure, measure and compare sedimentation in a waterway and build a turbine.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Engineering. Economics.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Africa
Research and report on two pressing environmental concerns in Africa: the scarcity of clean water and the desertification of farmland. Respond to these issues through activities involving art, drama and journalism.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: American Field Guide
Examine the issues surrounding land-use conflicts, and discuss the different definitions of the value of natural areas. Discuss the pros and cons of ecotourism, and develop an ecotourism plan.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: Energy Education for the 21st Century
Compare and contrast different types of electricity production systems and their associated parts, processes and products. Describe the environmental, economic and social implications attributed to each resource used for electricity production.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Energy. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Explore the law making process. Research and defend positions on environmental issues.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Civics: United States Government.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Examine the nature of competition among predators and evaluate the effect of increasing and decreasing food supplies on animal populations.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Examine relationships between animal population, climate and biodiversity. Understand population interactions in an ecosystem and create a book that demonstrates these interactions as they relate to a selected animal indigenous to the Etosha park.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify different types of camouflage used by animals in the Etosha pan and construct an "animal" that uses protective coloration, mimicry or patterns to prevent detection.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Emulate the work of entomologists and explore biodiversity by collecting insects from different sites and keeping records of various populations. Develop a theory about insects and design a way to test it.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Compare and contrast the weightlifting abilities of ants and humans and graph the results, and investigate the roles ants and fungi play in the forest ecology.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: American Field Guide
Examine the concept of fire management in ecosystems and the role of forest fires in maintaining diversity. Discuss the effectiveness of and the different issues and interests surrounding the Forest Service's prescribed burning strategies.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Discuss data and statistics to determine the information conveyed, patterns revealed and conclusions that can be drawn. Present information in various ways, such as bar graphs, tables and pie graphs and determine what other information is desired.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Data Analysis/Probability. Statistics. Ecology. Energy. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine the types of ecosystems that could be subject to wildland fires and identify fire risk factors for a property located near a wildland area.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Energy. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine different types of flood control and what would happen without any human interference in flood situations. Construct a model of a river system with levees.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters. Meteorology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Explore the dynamics of river flooding, and propose ideas that will reduce the risk of floods.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Investigate the scientific principles of biospheres, and observe the effects of biological processes on closed systems.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Examine how the use of toxic chemicals can affect the health of both local and regional communities. Compare non-toxic alternatives with their toxic counterparts, and develop a plan for reducing the use of toxic chemicals.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Discuss animal and plant adaptations to their environments. Invent an organism with adaptations to fit a particular niche, and predict its impact on other populations.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Explore the career of a park ranger and experience Glacier Bay as a laboratory for observing, studying and appreciating the ocean, ice and its inhabitants.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Careers.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Design, populate and monitor a mini-ecosystem and calculate the changes in population over time.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Oceanography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify how certain species survive in the Namib Desert through color protection, and determine what techniques animals in Namib use to hide from predators and to wait for prey.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: PBS 45 & 49: Ama-zone! The Rain Forest Project
Examine the current rate of destruction of the rain forest. Determine how long it would take to destroy a local community at the same rate.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Examine pond ecosystems and discover how excessive nutrients in an aquatic system can lead to a bloom of microorganisms.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Predict and investigate the rate of microbial growth at different temperatures. Describe the differences in the rate of microbial growth among samples in different environments and possible reasons for those differences.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Moyers on America
Investigate the significant political influence that conservative evangelical Christians have exerted in the past. Examine how division among evangelicals over the environment could impact their future influence on U.S. politics.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Civics: United States Government. Religion.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine the characteristics of insects and research one type of insect. Classify insects as helpful or harmful to society by collecting, analyzing and interpreting information.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Classification. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the three main groups of fishes and identify external and internal bony fish anatomy and physiology. Examine the Kamchatka ecosystem and the role of salmon in the food web, and describe the salmon spawning cycle.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Fish. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures
Identify marine debris and explain multiple effects debris can cause to ecosystems. Illustrate general patterns of ocean currents to explain how debris is concentrated in certain areas of the seas, and explore its effect on marine life.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Oceanography. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Define sustainable agriculture. Identify problems faced in sustainable agriculture and offer possible solutions.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Agriculture. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: American Field Guide
Identify some of the solid waste that is generated by students and produced by industry. Design a solid waste management plan to demonstrate knowledge of recycling, natural cycles and minimizing the waste and dangers of landfills.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Lewis And Clark
Identify animals chronicled in the journals of Lewis and Clark's expedition, evaluate the animal's habitat and describe the animal's behaviors. Compare the animal's position in the food web during the early 1800's with the its current position.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology. United States History: 1801-1861.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey Into Amazonia
Research a plant or animal from the rainforest, identify its physical location within the rainforest and contribute information about that organism to a group project on rainforest habitats.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Botany. Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify mammals of the Namib Desert, categorize which are predators and which are prey and discuss the balance of nature in Namib.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: Energy Education for the 21st Century
Investigate how technology has both decreased the use of raw natural resources as well as increased our efficiency of their use. Consider your own energy consumption to identify ways to realistically reduce your use of resources.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Energy.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Conduct experiments to determine how temperature can affect the growth of algae and perhaps discover a way to control it.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Research how people affect animal populations by introducing alien species, which endanger endemic species. Map how the imported red fire ant expanded its range in the U.S. since the 1920s, and investigate the impact this alien has on local species.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the harsh characteristics of the Namib Desert and determine the adaptations an insect in Namib Desert must have to survive.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Understand that microorganisms can survive in many different environments and that microorganisms live in places where conditions are suitable for their growth. Create and observe three mud columns to further study.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Classification. Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the birds of the Namib desert, describe the different environments in which birds live in the Namib Desert and build a bird mobile.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Understand how the temperature of the Namib Desert is changed by sand, which acts as an insulator, and identify how species survive by burying themselves in sand. Set up a laboratory experiment to measure and graph sample Namib Desert temperatures.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Measurement. Ecology. Meteorology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Understand that an ecosystem such as the Kalahari has a system of checks and balances to ensure that no species overpopulates and threatens the survival of other species. Chart a food chain and explore the balance between predator and prey.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Examine the positive and negative effects of non-native or invasion species. Discover what individuals can do to help lessen the impact of non-native/invasion species on native environments, plants and animals.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Investigate non-native species that are invading local or state environments. Discover how some non-native/invasion species are affecting farming and recreational activities.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Demonstrate how soil absorbs radioactivity by simulating the absorption of the radioactive isotope from the Chernobyl disaster into the lichen of Scandinavia. Use a chart to figure out the half-life of the isotope.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Chemistry. Ecology. Atomic. World History: 1945-1990.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Identify the factors that contribute to the intensity of a hurricane. Discuss how global warming is contributing to hurricane intensity, and conduct a survey to discover what the public understands about global warming.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Observe organisms in various environments, determine what enables the organisms to live in that environment and discuss the varied biological functions of the organisms.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Classification. Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Examine the connection between environmental degradation and poverty, disease and hunger. Analyze data for various countries, and consider the political, social and environmental repercussions of these trends.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Civics: Comparative Political Systems. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Explore current scientific research on the impact that climate changes are having on the penguins of Antarctica. Gather information regarding penguins, and write a story from a penguin's point of view that describes its daily life.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Backyard Jungle
Identify and draw 10 different native or exotic plants, and record important information about each plant. Compare and contrast observations with others.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures
Describe the habitat, food web and ecosystem of shark species. Identify threats to sharks and explore how top predators help to maintain the balance of nature within ecosystems. NOTE: Contains an interactive game.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Fish. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the effect of overcrowding on a population, and play a game that demonstrates what happens as a population loses its space. Investigate cooperation in social groups, the benefits of sharing food and what happens when the system breaks down.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Bill Moyers Journal
Investigate the author's motives for writing the 1962 book Silent Spring, which exposed the environmental hazards of the pesticide DDT. Consider whether scientists have a responsibility to speak up when they perceive a threat to the public good.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Ethics in Science. Scientists and Engineers.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Point of View
Learn about risks of vermiculite attic insulation that may contain dangerous asbestos fibers. Work in a group to develop a community-outreach campaign that educates the community about safety precautions related to this hazard.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Health & Fitness, Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Public/World Health. Ecology. Civics: Community & Citizenship.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Compare human traits to those of raptors, investigate how raptors and humans have interacted and look at ways the traits of raptors have influenced the design of aircraft.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Ecology. Motion & Forces.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Research and discuss different types of plant adaptations to fire. Design a model fire-resistant plant species.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Examine the positive and negative effects of wildland fires.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Examine the impact of poaching on the rhinoceros. Identify animals that have become extinct or are nearing extinction, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Explain the importance of rivers in the natural balance of life on Earth, and describe what happens when people begin to tamper with rivers. Identify options for dealing with the outcomes of human intervention.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Design and conduct investigations to identify the effect bacteria and enzymes have on food samples. Discover how bioremediation can greatly increase decomposition rates of organic matter and assist in removing contaminants from water and soil.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Microbiology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Test the effects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation on living cells by simulating the ozone hole in the lab, then consider how this information might apply to you.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Atmosphere & Space Science. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the characteristics of a symbiotic relationship, and identify the living creatures involved in symbiotic relationships described in various scenarios. Describe the relationship, and identify the type of symbiosis exhibited.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the issues surrounding the mosquito infestations. Investigate surface tension to explain how the egg rafts stay afloat and mosquitoes are able to stand on the water's surface, and review proper disposal of automobile tires.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Health & Fitness, Science & Tech
Topics: Disease. Ecology. Microbiology. Motion & Forces.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Research human and environmental impacts endangering many plant species. Investigate factors affecting seed germination and graph the results.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Emulate the work of a naturalist by making observations of wildlife in local parks. Record field notes, including drawings, photographs and observations of behavior, on a particular animal or habitat.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Investigate an ecological problem from the Cold War, and explore two solutions. Explore three methods for separating recoverable trash into its component parts, and build a model landfill to observe problems associated with waste management.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Investigate the effects of soil erosion. Describe measures that people are taking to preserve grassland ecosystems and the cultures that depend on them.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Agriculture. Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine the complexities of a food web by identifying the plants and animals that make up a small segment of the complex food web of a region in Madagascar.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Great Lodges
Research Bryce Canyon National Park to learn about the Park's geologic features, recreational activities and scenery. Compose lyrics that reflect the nature and history of the park.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters. Geography. United States History: 1890-1930.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey Into Amazonia
Compare plants grown in simulated Amazon soil to those grown in soil prepared by the slash-and-burn method. Describe leaf development in plants grown in different soils and chart, average and graph plant growth by height
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Mathline
Estimate the size of a large population (fish in a bay) by applying the concepts of ratio and proportion through the capture-recapture statistical procedure.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Data Analysis/Probability. Statistics. Animals: Fish. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Wide Angle
Share knowledge of environmental, social/personal, economic and political issues involving the fishing industry of Scotland. Conduct further research about the fishing industry in Scotland.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the producers and consumers in an ecosystem, make a model of a food web and explain how changes in the population of one organism can affect the entire food web.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Discuss how hurricanes develop. Examine how wetlands can deprive a hurricane of some of the warm, moist air that supplies its energy.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Explore the damaging effects of sprawl. Design a community that provides essential needs for its residents while maintaining environmental balance.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Identify the essential needs and services that a community should provide for its citizens. Determine the impact that producing these services has on the environment.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Secrets of the Ocean Realm
Determine the sequential links in a marine food chain and identify the roles of various organisms. Develop charts as visual aids for illustrating marine food chains.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Oceanography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Differentiate between clayey, sandy, and loamy soil. Understand the issues farmers face as they sustain the quality of the soil on their farms.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Agriculture. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Investigate issues associated with the establishment of recycling and composting facilities.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Analyze the choices people make by examining their trash. Explore how reducing the amount of waste entering the waste stream benefits our environment.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Investigate the use of pesticides in schools, and determine alternative measures to reduce the use of pesticides.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: Energy Education for the 21st Century
Identify biomass resources, describe how biomass is a form of stored solar energy and explain how particular biomass resources can be used to provide heat and electricity or contribute to transportation resource needs.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Energy.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Point of View
Role play the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, identify what private citizens are doing to protect endangered turtles and discuss whether humans have an obligation to help endangered species.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Civics: Community & Citizenship.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: American Field Guide
Learn about the plants and animals of the Temperate Grasslands biome of North America, and examine the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on the ecosystem. Create graphs and analyze climate patterns of the Temperate Grasslands.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Emulate the work of a naturalist by making observations of wildlife in local parks. Record field notes, including drawings, photographs and observations of behavior, on a particular animal or habitat.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore zoos and the change in animal care, and research the physiology and habitats of polar bears. Investigate the difference between what is essential to survive and what is desirable in an enriched environment.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Explore the history of zoos, and design blueprints for an enriched "new zoo." Research genetic problems in captive animals.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Birds. Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Investigate how scientists track the world's most valuable and endangered fish. Define the range of an individual based on observations made over the course of a day.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Fish. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Scientific American Frontiers
Investigate how the growth of one animal's population, such as humans', can have a profound impact on other animals. Plot a graph to illustrate the impact of human population on endangered species.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Data Analysis/Probability. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Identify the problems facing wildlife in Patagonia and possible solutions for the problems. Participate in a mock international wildlife conference to make resolutions and establish a plan to save the wildlife of Patagonia.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine problems faced by Japanese and Australian pearl farmers and recommend solutions for these problems. Compare how pearls are extracted with how some other items are extracted from nature, and determine how demand is created for these items.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Animals: Invertebrates. Ecology. Economics.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey Into Amazonia
Map the world's rainforests and identify commonly used products made with materials that originated in rainforests. Determine whether or not the materials were harvested in a sustainable manner, and decide if that would affect your buying behavior.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: PBS 45 & 49: Ama-zone! The Rain Forest Project
Explore ways in which humanity influences the survival of the rain forest. Identify ways in which the rain forest influences the survival of humanity.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Research water issues, the threat of food shortages, human population growth and global warming. Examine how these issues are likely to have a significant impact on the future well-being of Earth's environment.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Journey To Planet Earth
Describe the environmental problems created by rapid development of urban areas, and identify solutions for dealing with problems caused by uncontrolled urbanization. Explain the importance of urban development plans for dealing with these problems.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Urban Studies.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Nature
Research the many ways animals and plants have adapted to ecosystems around the world, describe how interdependence, climate, geography and life cycles affect an organism's ability to survive.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: American Field Guide
Analyze the Endangered Species Act, and discuss its impact on humans and the environment. Examine the life-cycle of a sea turtle, investigate efforts to maintain sea turtle populations and consider the pros and cons of protecting the species.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: iWonder
Examine characteristics and environments of conifer and hardwood trees. Learn ways that humans use trees and discover how this impacts the environment.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: WPSU: iWonder
Explore the characteristics, environment, means of protection and eating habits of five common turtles that are native to the eastern United States and learn how these factors help the turtles survive.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Reptiles & Amphibians. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Determine the validity of predictions about the greenhouse effect, examine how scientists use data about present conditions to extrapolate into the future or the past and identify what variables make it difficult to make precise conclusions.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Reading & Language Arts, Science & Tech
Topics: Critical Thinking Skills. Atmosphere & Space Science. Ecology. Energy.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Learn about Mount Kilimanjaro and develop a travelogue to describe the distinct ecological regions of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Discuss how individual organisms and groups of organisms interact with each other, and research and classify symbiotic relationships between individual organisms of different species.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Botany. Classification. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Thirteen/WNET: Planet H2O
Examine the different types of contaminants found in water. Research the world's most polluted water hot-spots and devise a plan for pollution prevention.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Thirteen/WNET: Planet H2O
Consider what it means to conserve water. Monitor daily water use and propose methods for home water conservation.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Explore water usage issues, and discover how changes in behavior may be necessary when considering water usage.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Louisiana Public Broadcasting: Enviro-Tacklebox
Consider where the water you drink comes from. Model the steps used by water treatment plants to clean and purify water.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures
Explore the water cycle by completing a treasure hunt and creating a topographic map of a watershed in your community.
Grade Level: 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology. Geology & Natural Disasters.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures
Describe the gray whale migration route and graph reasons for the migration. Predict what would happen to gray whales if they did not exhibit certain behaviors. NOTE: Contains an interactive game.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: PBS 45 & 49: Ama-zone! The Rain Forest Project
Demonstrate the effect of deforestation on the lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Atmosphere & Space Science. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Search for meaningful trends in regional raw temperature data by using a statistical analysis technique, the moving average.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Math, Science & Tech
Topics: Data Analysis/Probability. Statistics. Ecology. Meteorology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine facts about wolf behavior and wolf relocation policies, and analyze some of the social and political aspects of wolf relocation.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Animals: Mammals. Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Explore the links among population growth, immigration, environment and support of the elderly in America. Conduct a role play and explore the options available to tackle problems caused by deomgraphic trends.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Geography. Immigration.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: NOVA
Examine the environmental, economic and political issues surrounding global climate change policy. Conduct a role-play, and explore the options available to tackle global climate issues.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Subjects: Science & Tech, Social Studies
Topics: Ecology. Economics. Geography.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
Source: The Living Edens
Investigate the interdependence of wildlife in the Yellowstone ecosystem and draw an ecosystem showing the interdependence of life forms.
Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8
Subjects: Science & Tech
Topics: Ecology.
Resource Type: Lesson Plan
