Intro to Ecosystems

Biotic vs. Abiotic Factors

Definitions

• Ecosystem: A community interacting with the non-living parts of its environment.

• Biotic: Living organisms in the environment, such as plants or animals.

• Abiotic: Non-living physical features of the environment, such as soil and water.

Evidence 1: Card Sort

Sort the cards into 3 columns:

Biotic Abiotic Not Sure (or both/can’t

agree)

Evidence: Sort contd…

• Write down the items that you were unsure of.

• Look at those that are in the unsure column. Why were those confusing?

• If you agreed on all of them, write down the rule that you used to decide.

Evidence: Pictures

• For each picture, write the name and 2 columns. List as many biotic and abiotic factors as you can for each ecosystem

• Where do you think the ecosystem boundaries are? (Where does it begin and end?)

River

Mountain Valley

Prairie

Ocean

Evidence 3: Courtyard Ecosystem

• Your group will be assigned an area in the courtyard.

• List as many biotic and abiotic factors as you can.

• Write down the boundaries of your assigned ecosystem.

Analysis Questions

1. You’re on the beach and find a piece of driftwood. Is it biotic or abiotic? Why?

2. Is a patch of lawn an ecosystem? Explain.

3. What are some biotic & abiotic factors that would affect a plant but not a rabbit?

Summary

What did you think ecosystems before this lesson?

What did you learn about ecosystems from this lesson? (Minimum of 3 sentences!!!)

What are some further thoughts or questions you have about ecosystems?

Reflection

Big Idea