Human Impact on Food Webs | The Age of Nature

In this activity, students will analyze the role that species play in the local community and ecosystem. Two species, the firefly and wolf, demonstrate to students the importance of ecological preservation and restoration. Re-establishment of these species benefits not only ecosystems but also humans. Examining the delicate balance of food webs and energy pyramids expands students’ understanding and appreciation of natural systems. Students will have the opportunity to recognize, interpret, examine, and judge the significance of species interconnectedness in their own communities. 

Students will watch documentary clips from PBS’ The Age of Nature, identify central ideas and key details, and ask clarifying questions. Students will individually or in pairs complete a crossword puzzle with terminology for the lesson. In groups of four, students will play a card game that reinforces the importance of all species to an ecological community and ecosystem. The final project reinforces understanding while prompting skills such as communication and creativity. 

Several thematic concepts have been introduced in the lesson: ecological restoration, sustainable practice, community and ecosystem balance, and the human role in these systems. Students will use these concepts to develop a song, dance, poem, rap, or other artistic creation to demonstrate identification with these concepts.

About the Author: Sebastian Byers teaches Earth and Environmental Science, AP Biology and AP Environmental Science. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and received his teaching certification from UNC Charlotte. He obtained his Masters in Educational Leadership from Queens University of Charlotte and is a Master Teacher Trainer with UNCTV. He is a 2018 PBS Digital Innovator All-Star and has co-hosted multiple Virtual Professional Learning Series with PBS.