Understanding Ecosystems: Learning and Living in the Carolinas

Kimberly Luter Terrell, Fifth Grade, Steele Creek Elementary School

Final Unit(pdf)   Implementing Teaching Standards(pdf)

Synopsis:

This unit serves as collective set of activities to give the students more access to the concepts of ecosystems. Instead of learning about ecosystems, they will become active participants in understanding and conserving the ecosystems around them. The unit is composed of literary elements, vocabulary building strategies, authentic data, rich satellite images, and collaborative activities.

By the end of the unit, students should be able to understand how an ecosystem functions as well as identify local ecosystems and provide ways to be active citizens in protecting valued resources within ecosystems. My goal in designing this curriculum unit is to provide an authentic learning experience that brings the text alive to students and helps them become more conscientious in their interactions with the environment.