Ecology

Ecology looks at the relationships between living things and their environment. In this unit you will learn about how different organisms are classified into groups, as well as understand how organisms develop different adaptations in order to survive. You will also learn the differences between food chains and food webs, and understand how changes in the environment can affect the population size of different organisms.

Task 2b: Make notes that:

• Define what a species is

• Describe the difference between vertebrates and invertebrates

• Draw a diagram of the five different vertebrate groups and label each group with the key differences between them

Task 3c: Make notes that:

• Define the term variation

• Draw a mind map for a polar bear and a camel to show the different features they have to help them adapt to their habitats

• Suggest how an organism’s diet might cause variation between different species.

Task 3e: Using information from the diagram, explain why the hare population increased in 1925.

Task 4b: Make notes that:

• Define what a food chain is

• Draw a diagram to show the different stages in a food chain

• Explain how energy is lost along a food chain

• Compare food chains and a food webs

• Suggest why it is important to look at population changes in food webs instead of food chains

Task 4c: Complete the exam questions and self mark your answers.

Task 4d: Complete the progress quiz

Task 5b: Make notes that:

• Define the term biomass

• Describe the differences between pyramid of biomass and pyramid of numbers

• Suggest why the pyramid of biomass is better for representing a food chain

Task 5c Using graph paper and the data in the table:

1. Draw a pyramid of biomass

2. Draw a pyramid of numbers

3. Decide which pyramid is the best representation. Explain why.

Challenge: If the rose bush has 25MJ per M² how much energy does the Aphid have? Explain why.

Task 5d: Complete and mark the exam question

Task 6c: Make notes that:

• Define the term Biomagnification

• Suggest different ways toxins can be released into the environment (both terrestrial and aquatic).

• Explain why organisms at the top of the food chain bioaccumulate the most toxins

• List advantages and disadvantages of using pesticides

Task 7b: Make notes that:

• Define the term Interdependence

• Describe the differences between parasitism and mutualism

Task 7d: Watch the video and make notes that:

• Describe and explain how the Hairworm can be classed as a parasite

• Suggest why the Hairworm cannot affect humans

Complete the quiz to check your understanding of this unit