Topics Explored: Biodiversity, Population,Ecosystems, Biomagnification, Scientific Notation, Dimensional Analysis, Percent Change, Rule of 70
This case study explores the concepts of bioaccumulation and biomagnification and their impact on bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Answer key included.
Case Study: Bald Eagles (Teacher & Student Edition)
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(1 Teacher Edition and 1 Student Edition)Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
HS-LS2-1. Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
HS-LS2-2. Use mathematical representations to support and revise explanations based on evidence about factors affecting biodiversity and populations in ecosystems of different scales.
HS-LS2-6. Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.AP® Environmental Science Learning Objectives:
1.9 Explain how energy flows and matter cycles through trophic levels.
1.11 Describe food chains and food webs, and their constituent members by trophic level.
8.3 Describe endocrine disruptors. Describe the effects of endocrine disruptors on ecosystems.
8.8 Describe bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Describe the effects of bioaccumulation andbiomagnification.
9.9 Explain how species become endangered and strategies to combat the problem.
9.10 Explain how human activities affect biodiversity and strategies to combat the problem.AP® Environmental Science Practices:
Practice 1: Explain environmental concepts, processes, and models presented in written format.
Practice 2: Analyze visual representations of environmental concepts and processes.
Practice 3: Analyze sources of information about environmental issues.
Practice 4: Analyze research studies that test environmental principles.
Practice 5: Analyze and interpret quantitative data represented in tables, charts, and graphs.
Practice 6: Apply quantitative methods to address environmental concepts.
Practice 7: Propose and justify solutions to environmental problems.
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