Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

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Objective

I can evaluate which design solution is best for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services, and explain my reasoning.

Part 1 of 3

Warm-up video

TED-Ed · 4:19Vetted channel

We don't generate video — this one is by TED-Ed on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

7 questions

1

Explain the relationship between ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity. How do these three factors contribute to overall biodiversity?

2

Describe a scenario where a decrease in genetic diversity within a species could make an ecosystem more vulnerable to change.

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

A town is deciding how to manage a forest area. Design Solution A is to harvest trees for lumber in a way that leaves only one type of tree. Design Solution B is to harvest trees in a way that leaves many different types of trees and plants. Which design solution is better for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services like clean air and water? Explain your reasoning. A coastal community is considering two options for managing its shoreline. Design Solution A is to build a large concrete wall to prevent erosion. Design Solution B is to restore a natural mangrove forest along the coast. Which design solution is better for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services like storm protection and fisheries? Explain your reasoning.

Sample answer included in the free materials

Get the materials

Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

  • Teacher Guide

    Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities

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    Printable worksheet

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