May 2026

As we move into May, we are in the middle of exploring matter and energy in ecosystems. Over the past few weeks, students participated in a classroom simulation that modeled a simple food chain (grass → rabbits → snakes → hawks). Through this simulation, students were able to increase and decrease different populations and observe how changes to one organism affected the entire system. This helped reinforce the idea that ecosystems are interconnected and that even small changes can have significant impacts. (YES, even buying a candy bar here in Holden can impact ecosystems in Indonesia - it is the palm oil ingredient!) 

We then developed more detailed models of ecosystems by creating food web models in our classes (see some pictures below). Using organism cards with descriptions, students identified roles (producers, consumers, predators, etc.) and made visual models showing how energy flows through an ecosystem. These activities helped deepen their understanding of how organisms depend on one another for survival. 

Students just started a “Pond Ecosystem Simulation” in class. In this simulation students will “go fishing” for a day. They will start by measuring the temperature and oxygen levels of several pond ecosystems over the course of a day. Then go fishing to see how abiotic factors like oxygen levels and temperature can affect fish populations (catfish and trout). They will be able to explore how oxygen levels in a pond change throughout the day, where that oxygen comes from, and how it affects fish and other organisms. We will also compare differences between warm and cold ponds and discuss how human activities, such as farming, can impact water quality and the health of an ecosystem. 

After Math MCAS testing, students will begin an Animal “One-Pager” project focused on a specific animal of their choice. This project is designed to help students demonstrate their understanding of how organisms interact within ecosystems and rely on both living and nonliving factors to survive. The final products will be printed and shared in a “Gallery Walk”, giving students a chance to check out each other’s work, learn about different animals and ecosystems, and make connections across what they’ve been studying.  

 Mary-Beth Petit

Grade 7 Science - Gold Team