Ecology 2: Organisms' Needs
In this 6-hour course, students will learn about what organisms (plants, animals, and humans) need to survive. Students will learn about an organisms' habitat and niche.
What's included
6 pre-recorded lessons
6 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentAssignments
1-2 hours per week. Students will recieve immediate feedback on worksheets, excel documents, labs and more.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 4 - 7
Beginner Level
This class explores the needs of living things such as food, water, shelter, air, soil, space, the right temperature, and sunlight. Students also delve into the difference between habitat and niche, gaining a unique understanding of the competition that exists in ecosystems. The class stands out by incorporating hands-on investigations and real-world case studies to illustrate these dynamic relationships. Through interactive activities and labs, students will develop a deeper understanding of ecological interdependence and the factors driving biodiversity. This course is structured with lecture notes followed by activities relevant to the notes that have students recall knowledge, then apply knowledge, then create something to show their knowledge. Each day, students will move through a few engaging activities relevant to the day's topics. Students will interact via online lecture notes, games, activities, labs, and videos. My teaching style is engaging, student-centered, and interactive, focused on creating meaningful connections between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. I emphasize hands-on learning through activities and labs that encourage critical thinking and active participation. I accommodate diverse learning styles, fostering an inclusive environment where students feel supported in exploring complex topics.
Learning Goals
Student can explain the things that organisms need to survive.Student can explore the things that organisms need to survive.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Needs of Living Things Lecture and Identification
Students will read through needs of living things notes. Students will complete a drawing activity to identify needs of living things. 1 assignment
Lesson 2:
Needs of Living Things Identification and Lab
Students will use a real world example of the needs of a plant during a lab. 1 assignment
Lesson 3:
Habitat and Niche Lecture and Identification
Students will read through habitat and niche notes. Students will complete a grouping activity to identify an organisms' habitat and niche. 1 assignment
Lesson 4:
Habitat and Niche Identification and Example
Students will identify organisms in their habitat. Students will research an organisms habitat and niche. 2 assignments
Other Details
Supply List
Students will need a computer with access to Microsoft. Optional: Students will need a cup, soil, seed, water, marker, ruler to watch a seed grow. Optional: Students will need random materials around the house (straws, toothpicks, wool, tissues) to build a bird's nest
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined March, 2022
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello! My name is Ashley and I am a passionate middle school science teacher. I have taught middle school physical, life, and Earth and space sciences for grades 4-9 or 8 years in a high-achieving Pennsylvania public school. I have also taught astronomy and forensics. I strive to create fun learning experiences for students. Engaging all different types of learners, creating hands-on experiences, and using real-world examples to apply knowledge is crucial to students understanding.
Degrees:
Bachelors of Education in Early Child and Adolescent Education from The Pennsylvania State University
Minor in Special Education from The Pennsylvania State University
Masters of Education in STEM from The Pennsylvania State University
30 additional continuing education credits from Wilkes University
in social emotional learning and educational technology
Certifications:
Pennsylvania Teaching Instructional 2 General Science Grades 7-12
Pennsylvania Teaching Instructional 2 Math Grades PK-8
Pennsylvania Teaching Instructional 2 All Subjects Grades PK-6
Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$10
weekly or $60 for all content6 pre-recorded lessons
6 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Choose your start date
Ages: 10-14
