Introduction
Biodiversity refers to the variety of plants and animals in an ecosystem. An increase in diversity of an ecosystem increases the chance of survival of the organisms that the ecosystem or habitat supports. If an ecosystem is healthy and stable, the chance of the ecosystem begin wiped out by disease of disaster decreases.
Sustainability refers to an ecosystem’s ability to maintain its functions and level of biodiversity.
Task
Use the website posted in this web quest to help you answer questions on your student document.
Process
1. What is biodiversity?
Read the first 2 paragraphs on the following web page to help you answer the above question. Write your answers using complete sentences and science vocabulary. (do not use the word "it" or "they" to refer to science content or vocabulary)
2. How is biodiversity recognized?
3. Define species and list the examples given
4. Explain what is genetic diversity and what is ecological diversity ( remember genetic traits of the frog population and research of biomes)
5. How many species have been identified on Earth?
6. Which biomes have the most biodiversity?
7. Which group of organisms are the most diverse? Define the group and give examples
8. Summarize the "Importance of Biodiversity" - read and use your own wording.
Read Threats to Biodiversity
9. Explain how habitat loss, invasive species, disease, natural disasters and human impact threating biodiversity. (click on the highlighted words for more information on each topic)
10. How can humans help promote biodiversity?
Evaluation
Answer all questions using complete sentences and science vocabulary to receive full credit for this assignment. Questions must be completed in the time allowed to receive credit.
Conclusion
Choice: - (pick one) Homework assignment - Due Thursday, 12/10/15
- create a small poster,
- create a technology based product (powerpoint, Prezi, Infographic, etc.)
- write a conclusion paragraph
Explaining the following:
- How different environments support varieties of organisms
- How greater biodiveristy leads to ecosystem stability
- importance of maintaining ecosystems biodiversity