Biology 20: Ecosystems & Population Change Projects

Three awesome projects to include in your Ecosystems & Population Change unit in Alberta's Biology 20 course! I love infusing research and project-based learning in the science classroom and found these activities to promote deeper learning in the course. Each individual project comes with a grading rubric, assignment outline, and checklist for students to monitor completion!

The projects included are:

1. Canadian Biomes Research Activity: Students will choose an area of Canada and identify and research the biomes, ecological niches, and ecosystems primarily present within that biome, and then compile and present that information in a unique way. Students will explore climate, soil composition, flora and fauna, prominent food webs/chains, the roles of biogeochemical cycles, and more!
2. Ice Bridge Research Activity: Students will explore the data and materials surrounding the Ice Bridge phenomena and answer the questions of: 
   How was North America initially populated? How does this knowledge affect what we know about humanity and evolution? Compiling their findings in a written response format, students will write a summary and analysis of the "Ice Bridge" theory for human migration to North America.
3. Exploring Evolution Project: Students will choose a question about evolution from the list provided to investigate in more depth. They will then develop a 2-page (double spaced, 12-pt. font) response to the chosen question based on your understanding of evolutionary theory and research conducted on the topic, and present their findings to a small group. I love this project as students really get to research topics they are interested in!