Create Beautiful DesignsSection #3: Science Topics for Module 4 - Ecology, Ecosystems and the Diversity of Life in Utah
An important aspect of this course for K-8 educators is a basic review of STEM. In Module 4 we are going to review ecology and ecosystems. It should be noted that this is an introduction and not comprehensive review of science. Articles and other resources are included here to help increase your conception ecology, ecosystems and the diverse habitats found in Utah. One of the best aspects of ecology for elementary educators is that ecosystems, habitats, plants, and common wildlife are often located near schools or within a short bus ride. The article below describes the value of teaching about ecology in K-12. I have also included a UEN resource on ecosystems for students and teachers. Espisito, Harris, Berkowitz & Pregnall (2019). The joys of teaching ecology in K-12 and informal settings. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment (Website Link for Article (Links to an external site.)) * Note - This should be a free article when logged in at DSU. Let me know if there are issues. Links to an external site. Utah Education Network. Ecosystem. (Website & Educational Resource (Links to an external site.)) - This resources places to go, information on expert scientists, and other resources teachers can use to enhance ecology lessons and activities. Educators wanting students to study ecosystems and habitats around the world may want to use wildlife cams from around the world. Click on the image below to review a small sample of the wildlife cams available for K-12 teachers. Science Curriculum Search Explore the science curriculum in the Utah SEEd standards. Search for: ecology, biomes, habitats, plants, animals, forests, wetlands, deserts, predator, prey, and food webs. What did you find at the grades you want to teach? We will be discussing this in more detail in class. As an extension, compare Utah's science standard with the science curriculum in another state you might want to teach in. The link for Utah's SEEd is here: LinkLinks to an external site. (Links to an external site.) Reflection QuestionsAfter reviewing the article on teaching about ecology and some of the resources you can use in your future classroom, consider these reflection questions:
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