Activity: Connections between nature and the built environment

Biology: Interactions and interdependencies

Relationships in an ecosystem

• the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs and insect pollinated crops
• the importance of plant reproduction through insect pollination in human food security
• how organisms affect, and are affected by, their environment, including the accumulation of toxic materials

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

Geography

Human and physical geography

• understand how human and physical processes interact to influence, and change landscapes, environments and the climate; and how human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems

Planet Earth

Biodiversity and Interdependence

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.

Social Studies

People, place and environment

I can identify the possible consequences of an environmental issue and make informed suggestions about ways to manage the impact. SOC 3-08a

• Provides a simple explanation of at least three consequences of an environmental issue, and for each suggest how they could be managed.

Third Level Scientific Skills

Skills and Attributes of Scientifically Literate Citizens:

• Demonstrates understanding of the impact of science on society and debates and discusses the moral and ethical implications of some scientific developments, demonstrating respect for the views of others.
• Expresses informed views about topical scientific issues, including those featured in the media, based on evidence and demonstrating understanding of underlying scientific concepts.
• Demonstrates increased awareness of creativity and inventiveness in science and the use of technologies in the development of sciences.

Science AOLE

Matter KS2:

• I can recognise that our planet provides natural materials and can explain why they may have been processed to make them useful.

Design thinking KS2:

• I can consider how my design proposals will solve problems and how this may affect the environment

Humanities AOLE

Active Citizens KS3:

• I can explain the connections between past, present and anticipated challenges and opportunities faced by people.
• I have planned and taken an active role in response to challenges and opportunities in my local community.

Curriculum Subject Links

• The environment and human influences
• Investigate the effects of pollution, for example, water, air, land, sound etc. and specific measures to improve and protect the environment, for example, renewable energy, efficient use of resources and waste minimisation etc.
• Explore the importance of biodiversity, how it impacts on our lives and how it is affected by human activity.

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