Ecology · SHS1 Biology

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.3.2.LI.1 - Use the appropriate ecological tool to estimate the population of given species in a named habitat.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Select the appropriate ecological tool (quadrat, pitfall trap, sweep net, pooter, or Lincoln Index) for estimating the population of a named species in a given habitat, and justify their choice.
Demonstrate the correct procedure for using a quadrat to estimate the population of slow-moving or non-motile organisms such as plants or snails in a school compound or nearby community.
Set up a pitfall trap correctly to sample ground-dwelling invertebrates and calculate an estimate of their population size.
Apply the Lincoln Index formula (N = M × C / R) to estimate the population of a motile species from mark-recapture data.
Prepare a written group report on the steps involved in estimating a population using at least one ecological tool, following the format for scientific reporting.

Sign in with your phone number to read the full note and download the GES plan - free.

Sign in with phone number

Curriculum details

Strand: Diversity of Living and Thins and Their Environmnet (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Ecology (3.2)
Content standard: 1.3.2.CS.3 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the use of ecological devices and methods such as the quadrat, pitfall trap, pooter, and Lincoln's index to study populations of organisms. 1.3.2.LO.1 Apply the knowledge of ecological terms to describe the concept of ecology. 1.3.2.LO.2 Explain how the living and non-living components of the environment interact to ensure the sustenance of life. 1.3.2.LO.3 Explain and show how various simple ecological tools can be used to estimate the population of species in a given habitat. 1.3.2.LO.4 3.2.4.1: Explain the relevance of direct counting, gut examination and radioactive/tracer methods of determining the flow of energy in an ecosystem. 1.3.2.LO.5 Explain the methods of determining and comparing the efficiency of energy flow in pyramids of numbers, biomass and energy.
Indicator: 1.3.2.LI.1 - Use the appropriate ecological tool to estimate the population of given species in a named habitat.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 7 (Week 27 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 52

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Task-Based Learning: in mixed-ability, all-inclusive groups, learners watch videos, research from the internet, and listen to presentations on the estimation of the population of organisms in habitats using the Lincoln Index and other tools. Submit a written report on the steps involved in the process: learners develop social and emotional spirit. Learners develop team spirit. Project-Based-Learning: select areas in the school compound or nearby community to estimate the population of various organisms using a quadrat, pitfall trap, sweep net and pooter. Learners appreciate real-life situations by undertaking project assignment in their nearby community.
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Computer/projectors/TV/smart * Pitfall trap phone * Pen drive * Pictures * Tape measure/ surveyor's tape
- and GESI
- * Hand lens * *
- Quadrats
- * Sweep net * Rain gauge
- Secchi disk
- Pooter
- Sample bottle and preservative
- Textbooks.
Assessment (1.3.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning.