Introduction to Ecosystems
This lesson introduces Year 9 students to the concept of ecosystems, focusing on the complex interactions between biotic and abiotic factors, the levels of organisation (Individual, Population, Community, Ecosystem), and the concept of interdependence.
Learning objectives
- Define an ecosystem and identify the levels of organisation within it.
- Distinguish between abiotic and biotic factors and explain their effects on communities.
- Explain the importance of interdependence and how changes in one population affect others.
Lesson plan (60 minutes)
Starter · 10 min
Do Now: List 5 things a plant needs to survive and 5 things an animal needs. Discussion on what happens if these are missing.
Introduction · 15 min
Teacher-led explanation of Ecosystem levels (Individual to Ecosystem) and Biotic/Abiotic factors using the provided explainer.
Main Activity · 20 min
Differentiated Worksheet Activity: Students work through Support, Core, or Stretch tasks based on prior attainment.
Assessment · 10 min
Class Quiz: 8-question multiple-choice check for understanding.
Plenary · 5 min
Plenary: 'Exit Ticket' - write one way humans negatively impact ecosystems and one way we can protect them.
Key vocabulary
- Abiotic
- A non-living factor that affects an ecosystem (e.g. temperature).
- Biotic
- A living factor that affects an ecosystem (e.g. predation).
- Community
- All the individuals of different species living together in a habitat.
- Interdependence
- The network of relationships between different organisms in an ecosystem.
- Quadrat
- A square frame used to sample organisms in an area.
Core worksheet (first questions)
- Explain the difference between a community and an ecosystem.
- What is the original source of energy for almost all ecosystems?
- Describe what might happen to a food web if a top predator is removed.
- List four abiotic factors that can affect a community.
Quiz (sample)
1. What is the definition of an ecosystem?
- A. A group of the same species living in one area.
- B. The interaction of a community of living organisms with the non-living parts of their environment.
- C. Only the living animals in a specific habitat.
- D. The study of how plants grow in different soils.
2. Which of the following is an abiotic factor?
- A. Predation
- B. Food availability
- C. Light intensity
- D. New pathogens
3. What term describes all the different populations of species living together in a habitat?
- A. Population
- B. Community
- C. Ecosystem
- D. Biosphere
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