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Learning Outcomes
By
the end of this activity, learners will:
Assist in building or observe a pre-made biosphere bottle
Understand the connection between the ecosystem of the bottle and the ecosystem of the Earth
Define ecosystem
Gain an appreciation of our Earth and the complexity of our planet
Begin to understand how changes made in one are of a closed system may have consequences in another area
Understand major ecological systems such as climate, water, carbon and nitrogen and their importance in a balanced environment
Curriculum Connections
Alberta Grade 7 Science: Interactions and Ecosystems
STS 1 Investigate and describe relationships between humans and their environments, and identify related issues and scientific questions
Illustrate how life-supporting environments meet the needs of living things for nutrients, energy sources, moisture, suitable habitat, and exchange of gases
Length of Activity
1.5 hours to build 3 weeks to observe
Materials List
Ecosystem in a Bottle Backgrounder
Ecosystem in a Bottle Learner Worksheet
Ecosystem in a Bottle Learner Worksheet Answer Key
One large, fully-enclosed
glass or plastic container