Unit 1: Ecosystems and Interactions

This unit introduces the fundamental structure of ecosystems and the relationships that connect living organisms to their environment. Students will investigate biotic and abiotic factors, explore habitats and ecological niches, and examine how organisms interact through competition, predation, and symbiosis. They will also study population dynamics and discover how environmental factors influence population growth and stability.

Topics:

  • What Is an Ecosystem?
  • Biotic and Abiotic Factors
  • Habitats and Niches
  • Interactions Between Organisms
  • Population Dynamics

Unit 2: Energy Flow in Ecosystems

In this unit, students will explore how energy enters ecosystems and moves between organisms. They will investigate the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers, construct food chains and food webs, and analyze trophic levels and energy pyramids. Through these studies, students will develop an understanding of why energy decreases at higher trophic levels and how energy flow shapes ecosystem structure.

Topics:

  • Producers, Consumers, and Decomposers
  • Food Chains
  • Food Webs
  • Trophic Levels
  • Energy Pyramids

Unit 3: Cycles in Nature

This unit focuses on the recycling of matter through Earth's ecosystems. Students will examine the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles, investigate the role of decomposers in nutrient recycling, and analyze how natural processes maintain ecosystem balance. They will also explore how human activities can disrupt these cycles and affect ecosystem health.

Topics:

  • The Water Cycle
  • The Carbon Cycle
  • The Nitrogen Cycle
  • Decomposition and Nutrient Recycling
  • Human Impacts on Biogeochemical Cycles

Unit 4: Biodiversity and Conservation

In this unit, students will explore the incredible variety of life on Earth and examine why biodiversity is essential for healthy ecosystems. They will learn how biodiversity is measured, investigate threats such as habitat destruction and invasive species, and evaluate conservation strategies used to protect species and ecosystems. Students will also study restoration projects and protected areas around the world.

Topics:

  • What Is Biodiversity?
  • Measuring Biodiversity
  • Threats to Biodiversity
  • Conservation Strategies
  • Protected Areas and Restoration

Unit 5: Human Impacts and Sustainability

The final unit examines the relationship between human societies and the environment. Students will investigate pollution, climate change, resource use, and sustainable development while exploring solutions to modern environmental challenges. Through case studies and real-world examples, they will learn how scientific knowledge can be used to promote environmental stewardship and create a more sustainable future.

Topics:

  • Pollution
  • Climate Change
  • Resource Use and Sustainability
  • Sustainable Development
  • Future Environmental Challenges

Final Challenge

Apply your understanding of ecosystems, energy flow, biodiversity, and sustainability to investigate a real-world environmental issue. Students will analyze scientific evidence, evaluate human impacts, propose solutions, and communicate recommendations that support the health and sustainability of ecosystems at local, regional, or global scales.

Sửa lần cuối: Thứ Ba, 9 tháng 6 2026, 1:51 AM