Ecology · SHS3 Biology

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.3.2.LI.1 - Accurately collect and analyse data on Body Mass Index of the learners and plant density on the school compound.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Measure and record the height (in metres) and body mass (in kilograms) of group members accurately using a measuring tape and weighing balance, and classify each individual’s BMI using the WHO categories (underweight, normal, overweight, obese).
Calculate the Body Mass Index of individuals using the formula BMI = mass (kg) ÷ height² (m²), and determine the mean BMI for the class with correct units.
Estimate plant density on the school compound using a quadrat frame, applying the formula density = total number of individuals ÷ total area sampled, and record data systematically in a field notebook.
Present collected data in a clear table format and analyse it by comparing class BMI distribution and plant density across different sampled sites.
Interpret the ecological significance of plant density data and the health implications of class BMI distribution, drawing preliminary conclusions that set the stage for valid inferences in the next lesson.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Diversity of Living Things and Their Environment (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Ecology (3.2)
Content standard: 3.3.2.CS.2 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of data collection, analysis, interpretation and making valid conclusions and inferences to address problems in the environment. 3.3.2.LO.1 Explain the interdependencies of living things and their environment and indicate the ecological importance of each. 3.3.2.LO.2 Accurately collect and analyse data, draw valid conclusions and inferences to address problems in the environment.
Indicator: 3.3.2.LI.1 - Accurately collect and analyse data on Body Mass Index of the learners and plant density on the school compound.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 4 (Week 24 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. 108

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential learning Approach: learners take turns to accurately measure the height and mass of every individual in their group and use the data to determine the mean BMI of the class.
Project-Based Approach: research from books, the internet documentaries and related sources, (discuss) the various tools and methods (e.g., quadrat sampling, the pitfall trap, wicker net trap, direct count, the Lincoln index, etc.) used for biological sampling.
Experiential learning Approach: learners go to the field and collect data to demonstrate how ecological tools are used to gather and record data.
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Provide the following for use by learners: measuring tape, weighing balance, quadrat frames, line, field * Provide the following for use by learners: measuring tape, weighing balance, Sweep and butterfly nets, thermometers, quadrat frames, line, field notebook, graph books etc.
- notebook. pooter, rain gauge,
Assessment (3.3.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.