Ecosystems: Living and Nonliving Parts

What You'll Learn

Ecosystems include all the living and nonliving things in an area that interact with each other. A pond ecosystem includes fish, frogs, algae, water, rocks, and sunlight.

Key Words

adaptation
metamorphosis

Materials Needed

small pots
cotton balls
zip-lock bags
labels
seeds
soil

Safety First

Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Dispose of materials properly after the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Build a model ecosystem in a jar using soil, small plants, and water. Seal it and observe how the water cycle works inside it 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 an ecosystem?