As educators, one of the most rewarding experiences is bringing the wonders of the natural world into the classroom.
The concept of symbiosis offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate relationships that exist between distinct species. Symbiosis encompasses various types of interactions, including parasitism, commensalism, and mutualism, each defined by the varying degrees of benefit or harm experienced by the organisms involved. By teaching students about these relationships, we can help them understand the complexity and interconnectedness of life in the oceans.
This blog will provide you with insightful explanations and engaging activities to effectively teach your students about symbiosis and its different forms. Let’s explore these remarkable biological interactions and inspire a deeper appreciation for the diversity of life!
This unit covers the following topics
- 3.1 Interactions
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
- 3.3 Nutrient cycles
Resources
Timeframe
- 4 weeks
- 17 class periods – 45-50 minutes each
Daily Agenda
Here’s an insight into my daily routine, outlining both my current practices and planned strategies. This encompasses the content I deliver, the methods I employ to reinforce concepts, the array of activities I incorporate, including simulations and laboratory work, and my approach to student assessment.
While this routine isn’t without its imperfections, it has proven effective for my students, as evidenced by my average pass rate of 90%.
Feel free to use this as a foundation, adapting it to align with your preferences and, crucially, incorporating valuable feedback from your students.
The goal is to maintain an atmosphere of engagement and enthusiasm, keeping students intrigued by the subject matter and get them to pass the AICE Exam.
Note: All pacing suggestions are estimates. Adjust the time to accommodate for specific student needs and interests.
Exposing students to proper blend of lecture, practice activities and questions is of paramount importance for their success on the Cambridge exam.
Curriculum Pacing Guide
1 Day = 45-50 minutes class.
Day 1 Lesson
- 3.1 Interactions
Objectives
- describe the meaning of parasitism, commensalism and mutualism, and understand that they are all examples of symbiotic relationships
Instructional Materials
- Lecture/Notes (PPT – slides 1-5)
- Student Guided Notes
Day 2 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- explain the following terms in relation to feeding relationships: consumer (including primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary), producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, predator, prey, food chain, food web, trophic level
Instructional Materials
Day 3 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- represent and interpret food chains and food webs
Instructional Materials
- Bell Ringers Day#1
Day 4 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- define productivity
- describe photosynthesis
Instructional Materials
Day 5 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- describe chemosynthesis and cellular respiration
Instructional Materials
Day 6 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- describe how energy is transferred through the food chain
Instructional Materials
Day 7 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- calculate and explain the energy losses along food chains
Instructional Materials
Day 8 Lesson
- 3.2 Feeding relationships
Objectives
- draw, describe and interpret pyramids of energy, numbers and biomass, including those that incorporate parasites and periods of plankton/algal bloom
Instructional Materials
Day 9 Lesson
- QUIZ
Objectives
Instructional Materials
- Quiz (3.1, 3.2)
Day 10 Lesson
- 3.3 Nutrient cycles
Objectives
- describe the biological role of essential elements
Instructional Materials
Day 11 Lesson
- 3.3 Nutrient cycles
Objectives
- state the chemical elements that make up carbohydrates, lipids and proteins
Instructional Materials
Day 12 Lesson
- 3.3 Nutrient cycles
Objectives
- explain the processes by which the reservoir of dissolved nutrients is replenished and removed
Instructional Materials
Day 13 Lesson
- 3.3 Nutrient cycles
Objectives
- describe the carbon cycle
Instructional Materials
Day 14 Lesson
- Review
Objectives
- Review topics/ objectives covered
Instructional Materials
Day 15 Lesson
- Review
Objectives
- Review topics/ objectives covered
Instructional Materials
Day 16 Lesson
- Review
Objectives
- Review topics/ objectives covered
Instructional Materials
- Study Guide
- Bell Ringers Day#8
Day 17 Lesson
- Chapter 3 Test
Objectives
- Assess student’s mastery
Instructional Materials
I would love to hear from you!
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog! Are there any topics you’d like to learn more about or see discussed here? I’d love to hear your suggestions. Please let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more updates!
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