Friday, 27 January 2017

Modelling in Science - Gr. 5 Wetland Ecosystems

How have/would you design(ed) an activity that uses modelling as a way to experience science in an authentic way?

Based on the predator-prey models from the previous session, students linked the understandings from their Wetland Ecosystems unit and the book Wolf Island (Celia Godkin) to develop a deeper understanding of food pyramids when modeled using wolves and deer. Students used the Net Logo simulation to “play” with the variables and explore the result of a variety of ecosystem imbalances.

Explain the connections to one or more of the STEM disciplines in that activity.

The activity links to STEM education is a myriad of diverse ways. Science, as it is focused on ecosystem interactions; Math, as it is based on numeracy and specific math operations; Technology, as it makes use of computer simulations; Engineering, as students had to design and use iterative cycles to develop understanding of imbalances.

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