Energy Flow in Ecosystems

What You'll Learn

All living things share basic characteristics: they grow, reproduce, respond to their environment, and need energy to survive. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals must eat other organisms.

Key Words

prey
ecosystem

Materials Needed

paper towels
markers
tape
small pots
cotton balls
zip-lock bags

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.
Do not look directly at the sun or bright lights.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read about Equilibrium and write down three key facts.

Step 2 — Do

Design a controlled experiment: grow plants under different light conditions (full sun, partial shade, no light). Water equally and measure growth daily for one week.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis? What would you change next time?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is camouflage?