Activity: Invasive species game

Biology: Interactions and interdependencies

Relationships in an ecosystem

• the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs and insect pollinated crops

Biology: Genetics and evolution

Inheritance, chromosomes, DNA and genes

• the variation between species and between individuals of the same species means some organisms compete more successfully, which can drive natural selection
• changes in the environment may leave individuals within a species, and some entire species, less well adapted to compete successfully and reproduce, which in turn may lead to extinction

Working Scientifically Skills

Experimental skills and investigations

• ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
• make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding

Teacher notes

• This activity can be used to expand on the topic of invasive species when exploring food webs and adaptation. SCN 4-01a

Planet Earth

Biodiversity and Interdependence

I can identify and classify examples of living things, past and present, to help me appreciate their diversity. I can relate physical and behavioural characteristics to their survival or extinction. SCN 2-01

• Identifies characteristics of living things and their environment which have contributed to the survival or extinction of a species.

I understand how animal and plant species depend on each other and how living things are adapted for survival. I can predict the impact of population growth and natural hazards on biodiversity. SCN 4-01a

• Describes how plants and animals depend on each other for food, shelter and pollination, using scientific vocabulary such as ‘population’, ‘community’ and ‘species’.
• Explains the possible effects of removal or addition of species on food webs and biodiversity.
• Summarises research findings to provide examples of structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations which lead to species survival.

Third Level Scientific Skills

Inquiry and Investigative Skills:

Scientific Analytical Thinking Skills:

• Applies scientific analytical thinking skills, with increasing independence, working with less familiar and more complex contexts.

Skills and Attributes of Scientifically Literate Citizens:

• Expresses informed views about topical scientific issues, including those featured in the media, based on evidence and demonstrating understanding of underlying scientific concepts.

Curriculum Subject Links

• The environment and human influences
• Interdependence of plants and animals.
• Explore the importance of biodiversity, how it impacts on our lives and how it is affected by human activity.
• Investigate what can be done to conserve and promote biodiversity, for example, school wildlife gardens / wilderness areas, anti-pollution strategies, habitat management etc.

Curriculum Skill Links

• Listen to and take part in discussions, explanations, role-plays and presentations
• Contribute comments, ask questions and respond to others’ points of view
• Communicate information, ideas, opinions, feelings and imaginings, using an expanding vocabulary
• Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
• Develop creative and critical thinking in their approach to solving scientific problems
• Demonstrate creativity and initiative when developing ideas and following them through
• Work effectively with others