Lesson: Cycles of Matter

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#content #criticalthinking #community #collaboration #communication #creativity

Objectives and Vocabulary: #content

BIO.8 The student will investigate and understand dynamic equilibria within populations, communities, and ecosystems. Key concepts include

b) nutrient cycling with energy flow through ecosystems;

Vocabulary:

Carbon cycle

Nitrogen cycle

Water cycle

Nutrient pollution

Warm Ups, etc:

Activities, Assignments, Etc.

Diagrams - students draw diagrams of the major nutrient cycles. This lesson is performed during the unit SOL 2 to introduce/reinforce chemical notation and chemical reactions, especially as they relate to photosynthesis, combustion, cellular respiration, and decomposition. It is important to stress the role of organisms at each step of the process.

Quick Check - Google Forms Quiz for self-assessment


Lecture Notes: #content

Diagrams - Cycles of Elements (done with "Chemistry of Life" unit)

A. Water Cycle (done after water chemistry)

  1. Surface Water

  2. Evaporation

  3. Condensation

  4. Precipitation

  5. Runoff

  6. Seepage/Ground water

  7. Plant- absorption/ transpiration

  8. Animal - intake/respiration/perspiration/urination

B. Carbon/Oxygen Cycle (done with Hydrolysis/Dehydration Synthesis)

relate reverse reactions/endothermic & exothermic nature of Photosynthesis vs. Respiration, Combustion and Decomposition, include contributions of all Kingdoms

C. Nitrogen Cycle (done with organic compounds)

Nitrogen Fixation and symbiotic root nodules in legumes- convert atmospheric nitrogen

Nitrification- role of plants/bacteria

Ingestion- requirement of N in diet

Ammonification and Denitrification - the role of decomposers

D. Phosphorus and nutrient pollution