Ecosystem Matter Cycles

3rd GradeScience50 min

aligned to 5-ls2-1, Requires Students To Use Models To Describe The Movement Of Matter Among Plants, Animals, Decomposers, And The Environment

Learning Objective

I can use a model to show how matter moves between plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment in an ecosystem.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

Understanding Ecosystems for Kids: Producers, Consumers, Decomposers - FreeSchool

Free School

Guided Notes

10 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • An ecosystem includes all the living and non-living things that interact in a specific area.

  • Producers make their own food, consumers eat other organisms, and decomposers break down dead plants and animals.

  • Ecosystems can become imbalanced due to natural events or human activity, but they can often recover over time if given the chance.

Practice

15 min

12 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Draw a simple model that shows how energy and nutrients move between the sun, plants, a rabbit, and decomposers in a forest ecosystem. Label each part of your model.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts