AICE Environmental Management AS - Environmental Research and Data Collection Day 7

2. Environmental Research and Data Collection Day#7. Lesson plan

2.4 Data collection techniques and data analysis
- describe techniques used to collect sample data
- describe benefits and limitations of each sampling technique
- select and use a suitable sampling technique to collect environmental data
- calculate estimated population size using the Lincoln index
- estimate percentage cover and frequency using quadrat data
- estimate abundance using quadrat data

Random sampling: samples based on drawing names or numbers out of a hat or using computer programs to give a random list.
Systematic sampling: choosing a sample based on regular intervals rather than random selection.
Quadrant: typically, one square meter samples, selected for assessing the local distribution of plant or animals.
Sedentary: organism that do not move, such as plants or rocky shore species like barnacle.

Start your lesson with an engaging hook to capture your students’ interest. Present a real-world environmental issue, such as the declining population of a local species or the impact of pollution on a nearby river. Show a brief video or present a case study that highlights the importance of accurate data collection in addressing these issues. This not only grabs their attention but also sets the stage for understanding the practical applications of the sampling techniques they are about to learn.

CREDIT: NBC2 News

Bell ringer #7
Lecture/Notes – Lecture (Chapter 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 PPT – slides 6 – 20)
- Sampling is an essential method for environmental scientists to gather data without examining entire populations.
- Describe benefits and limitations of each sampling technique
- Choosing the right sampling technique depends on the study objectives, the nature of the study area, and available resources
- Calculate estimated population size using the Lincoln Index
  The Lincoln index is a simple yet powerful tool for estimating population size based on mark-recapture data. Here’s a step-by-step guide for your students:
  Step 1: Capture a sample of the population, mark the individuals, and release them back into the environment.
  Step 2: After allowing time for the marked individuals to mix with the unmarked population, capture a second sample.
  Step 3: Count the number of marked (recaptured) and unmarked individuals in the second sample.

Use Student Guided Notes – This year, I’m using Version B Guided Notes with my students, as I’ve noticed they benefit from having more structured support during class.
- It features fill-in-the-blank prompts for key vocabulary and concepts, making notetaking faster and more accessible, especially for English language learners or those with processing difficulties.
Individual activity
- Sampling techniques – Booklet and Crossword Puzzle
  - Objective: Students will create a booklet summarizing various sampling techniques and complete a crossword puzzle to reinforce their understanding of key concepts.
  - Materials Needed:
    Blank paper or a small booklet template
    Colored pencils or markers
    Rulers
    Internet access or textbooks for research
    Glue and scissors (optional for adding images)
  - Have students reflect on the different sampling techniques and their applications.
  - Encourage them to think about how these techniques can be used in real-world environmental management scenarios.
  - Collect the booklets and crossword puzzles for assessment or display them in the classroom as a reference for future lessons.
  - Below are few examples of student’s work

Exit ticket
- If you opt to have students complete their notes using the Student Guided Notes format during your lecture, then use the bellringer as the exit ticket activity in class.
- If you opt to have students complete their notes using the Student Guided Notes format at home (homework), then use the following exit ticket activity:
  - Describe a sampling technique that you would use to estimate population size of snails in a forest.

Version A – For High-Level Students:
Ideal for independent or advanced learners, this version requires students to copy all notes by hand as homework before class. This flipped-learning approach helps students come to class prepared, freeing up time for application activities, discussions, and AICE-style practice questions.