Natural Sciences - Term 2 - Week 7

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, interacting with their physical environment, including air, water, and soil. Ecosystems can be as small as a puddle or as large as a forest. Each ecosystem has its own unique characteristics, and the organisms within it depend on each other for survival. For example, in a forest ecosystem, trees provide oxygen and shelter for animals, while animals help to pollinate plants and disperse seeds.

Let's consider a pond ecosystem. The living components include fish, frogs, insects, and plants like lily pads. The non-living components are water, sunlight, and soil. When we look at how these components interact, we see that fish rely on plants for oxygen and food, while frogs may eat insects. This example shows how living and non-living things work together to create a balanced ecosystem.

In small groups, discuss the ecosystems you can find in your local area. Think about parks, gardens, or even your backyard. What living and non-living things can you identify? After your discussion, each group will share their findings with the class. Use the vocabulary words we have learned, such as 'habitat,' 'species,' and 'interdependence,' to explain your ideas.

For this project, you will create a simple model of an ecosystem using materials you can find at home or in the classroom. Choose an ecosystem type, such as a desert, rainforest, or ocean. Include at least three living organisms and three non-living components in your model. Label each part and be prepared to present your ecosystem to the class, explaining how the components interact.

• A place where only plants live
• A community of living and non-living things
• A type of animal
• A weather pattern

Answer: A community of living and non-living things

An ecosystem includes both living organisms and their physical environment.

• Fish
• Trees
• Water
• Birds

Answer: Water

Water is a non-living component that is essential for the survival of living organisms.

Answer: Forest

A forest is an example of an ecosystem where many plants and animals live.

• Competition
• Interdependence
• Isolation
• Migration

Answer: Interdependence

Interdependence refers to how different species rely on each other for survival.

Answer: Plants provide oxygen for animals.

Plants release oxygen during photosynthesis, which animals need to breathe.

• It has living and non-living components
• It can change over time
• It is always the same
• It supports life

Answer: It is always the same

Ecosystems can change due to various factors like climate and human activity.

• They produce food
• They consume plants
• They break down dead matter
• They provide shelter

Answer: They break down dead matter

Decomposers recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem by breaking down dead organisms.