Content Objective: Energy flow through an ecosystem involves the conversion of energy into different forms and the loss of most of that energy is lost as heat which limits the length and biomass of higher trophic levels.
Language Objective: Create a diagram showing the flow of energy through an ecosystem.
Book Reference:
Syllabus Details:​
Most ecosystems rely on a supply of energy from sunlight
Light energy is converted to chemical energy in carbon compounds by photosynthesis
Chemical energy in carbon compounds flows through food chains by means of feeding
Energy released from carbon compounds by respiration is used in living organisms and converted to heat
Living organisms cannot convert heat to other forms of energy
Heat is lost from ecosystems
Energy losses between trophic levels restrict the length of food chains and the biomass of higher trophic levels
Quantitative representations of energy flow using pyramids of energy
Activity 1 - Chromatography Quiz and Vocab Practice
Go to Socrative (ISBCOVINGTON is the room) and answer the question (here is a copy of the quiz for future reference)
Using the Quizlet below, practice with your friends, the set of vocabulary words. The vocab list on is on the notes.
Activity 2 - Energy Flow Diagram
Using the awesome drawing provided by Mr. Covington (see here) show the following:
Label the different types of organisms (heterotrophs, autotrophs, etc) and the trophic levels.
Show using arrows the flow of energy through the ecosystem.
Bring it to the next class.
These notes can help also.
Activity 3
Math fun! Using the link below, calculate the energy transfers for each trophic level and create a pyramid of energy. Please answer the questions on another document or on paper and upload to Google Classroom.
Answer Key
Activity 3 only and VS students email Activity 4
Due dates on your homework page.
A. Strengthen Your Skills
B. Expand Your Knowledge