Cycling of Matter and Energy in an Aquatic Environment

Driving or Multi-dimensional Question:

How can The Boils WMA be managed in a way to allow natural cycling of matter without harm caused by the people who visit this fragile ecosystem?

Unit Summary:

This PBL focuses around a field trip to an important ecological area to the community. Through this unit students develop ownership of their public lands as well as the standards.

Hook Event:

Students should visit in person or virtually a local natural area. If a field trip is not practical the virtual tour plus a guest speaker can be very powerful. The intent of this hook event is to build a personal commitment to the site.

Culminating Event:

Student teams will present a plan to improve/protect the cycling of matter at The Boils WMA. These presentations will be digital in nature and shareable across many platforms.

Standards

Science Standards:

BIO1.LS2: Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
3) Analyze through research the cycling of matter in our biosphere and explain how biogeochemical cycles are critical for ecosystem function.

Math Standards:

A1.N.Q.A.2 Identify, interpret, and justify appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.
A1.N.Q.A.3 Choose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities.

ELA and Other Standards:

ELA Standards:
9-10.SL.CC.3 Evaluate a speaker’s point of view, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric; identify any fallacious reasoning and/or exaggerated or distorted evidence.

Additional Standards (Social Studies, Art, Physical Education):
U. S. History – US.49 Identify and explain the following New Deal programs and assess their past or present impact: (E, H, P, TN) · · Civilian Conservation Corps ·· Tennessee Valley Authority ·· Great Smoky Mountains National Park