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LESSON 2 - Introducing NatureMapping
Students will:
- To model the NatureMapping program.
- Learn about the NatureMapping program.
Materials Needed:
Worksheet 1 - What is NatureMapping?
Worksheet 2 - Modeling
NatureMapping
Hidden Picture for Worksheet
2 (212k) (.pdf document)
Worksheet 3 - The
NatureMapping Program
Engage
Begin by reviewing biodiversity with students. Ask them to predict
how one could study habitats and its biodiversity. Write their predictions
on the board. Explain that there is a program called NatureMapping
that studies habitats for biodiversity. Have students read Worksheet
1 to get a better understanding of the NatureMapping program.
Exploration
Tell students that one way to find out whether a habitat is healthy
or not is by taking an inventory of the plants and animals in that
area. If an area is biodiverse, then it is healthy. The next activity
will model the NatureMapping program. Give students Worksheet
2 and the Hidden Picture Worksheet
(.pdf document) . Have students look
for each type of animal and complete the chart on the worksheet.
Explanation
Ask students what information they learned from this hidden picture
activity. Does this area have biodiversity? Have students predict
how scientists might use this inventory or collection of these inventories
over time and from many different locations in their study of the
earth. Explain to students that this inventory allows scientists to
study the biodiversity of an area. Studying the numbers of animals
in a given habitat over a period of time may lead to the conclusion
that there are small numbers of animals that should be thriving in
that habitat. This may indicate an unbalance and the biodiversity
of the habitat is in danger. By protecting the biodiversity of an
area, many species of plants and animals will benefit. Such studies
may also lead to advanced notice of a species becoming extinct. Have
students continue this investigation by participating in the actual
NatureMapping program. Use Worksheet
3.
Extension
Have students model the NatureMapping program by taking an animal
inventory of the animals in their neighborhood. Choose a small area
and observe the animals in this plot. Identify and count the number
of animals that show up.
Evaluation
Have students write a letter to a friend introducing the
NatureMapping program. Include information about its purpose and role
in our world.
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