After this unit, students will be able to see where specific concepts from the previous unit on animal interactions will fit into the big picture. They will learn how students themselves can affect the systems described here in a meaningful ways. It would be great to connect back to adaptations and incorporate research tools they have already learned about.

The convenient thing about this unit is that the concepts are global. The discussion on ecosystems, biodiversity, and other topics can be connected directly to many of their home countries. More locally, these issues also apply to our natural areas in New England and even in Worcester. I think one of the most direct ways I connect to their personal backgrounds is to talk about ecosystems from their home countries. Connecting ecosystems and cycles to the immediate outdoors around Main South will make it much more relevant and tangible.

Next Up: Performance Assessments