Unit 2: Ecology (5 weeks)

Essential Question: Why doesnt one type of living thing take over the
world?
Overview:
The fundamental concept of ecology is that living organisms interact with
and are dependent on their environment and each other. These interactions
result in a flow of energy, and a cycling of materials that are essential for
life. Competition can occur between members of different species for an
ecological niche. Competition can also occur within species. Competition
may be for abiotic resources, such as space, water, air, and shelter, and for
biotic resources, such as food and mates. Students should be familiar with
the concept of food chains and webs.

Learning Targets:
1. I can compare/contrast using various methods/organizers.
2. I can distinguish the various roles organisms play in a situation.
3. I can analyze the interdependence and symbiotic relationships within
an ecosystem.
4. I summarize how organisms need energy and how they obtain it.

Grading:
Mastery Quizzes: 50 pts.
Mastery quizzes are short quizzes that assess 2 3 learning
targets. Your child will be given this quiz once the learning
targets have been taught in class. The best way to prepare
for these quizzes is by completing classwork and homework.
If your child is struggling with homework assignments please
contact us.
Mastery Quiz 1: will assess the following learning targets:

 I can compare/contrast using various

methods/organizers.
I can distinguish the various roles organisms play in a
situation.
Mastery Quiz 2: will assess the following learning targets:
I can analyze the interdependence and symbiotic relationships
within an ecosystem.

Mastery Quiz 3: I will assess the following learning targets:

I summarize how organisms need energy and how they obtain it.
Unit Test: 100 pts. Approximate date: (When the unit is
complete)
Students are expected to review their notes as preparation
for this test.
Performance Task: 100 pts: Approximate
date:_________________________
This is an in class assessment. It will consist of a writing task
as well as a sample of questions that can be found on
previous NY State Intermediate Science Exams. The sample
questions will be both multiple choice and constructed
response.
Culminating Project: 100 pts.
Students will complete a project titled Beautiful Biomes as a
final product for this unit. It will require a small amount of
research into a specific biome on Earth and creating a travel
brochure to promote visiting that biome.
Learning Activities
Your child will be completing a variety of learning activities in
class that reflect the learning targets for Unit 2. These will
be graded, and you will be able to track your childs progress
online. Students will create and analyze food chains and
food webs using various media. They will analyze and
determine whether objects are living, non-living or dead.

Should you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to

contact us. Thank you for your continued support.

8th Grade Science Teachers