Survival In An Aquatic Environment
Students will research an aquatic environment and develop an understanding of survival in this ecosystem. They will use a Comparison chart to analyze similarities and differences among different species in the aquatic environment and draw conclusions about survival in a specific ecosystem.
The knowledge gained about this specific aquatic habitat will help students develop a perspective on survival in unique habitats.
As students assist the Miami Seaquarium in their study of survival in an ocean environment, they will plan, create, and maintain a saltwater and a freshwater aquarium. They will discover that specific ecosystems are inhabited by unique living things.
As a result of their research and hands-on experience, students will create a portfolio of their findings that will be shared with the Seaquarium.
Why is it harder for a fish to survive in a saltwater habitat?
What characteristics does a saltwater aquarium need for living things to survive?
What characteristics does a freshwater aquarium need for living things to survive?
CBC# |
Standard |
| I.2 | Record observations on a data table. |
| I.5 | Measure temperature of an object using metric units. |
| I.2.A. | After using the science process skills in hands-on group investigations, the students will (a) record data and measurements, (b) collaboratively report the results from an observational and a comparative scientific investigation. |
| II.1. | Identify and classify animals from different groups. |
Unit Prerequisites
Students must be able to work in cooperative groups
Access different web sites that support your findings.
Observe the behavior of marine life in salt and fresh water habitats.
Investigate how chemical fluctuations can determine the survival of saltwater marine life.
Interpret:
Contrast the differences between the necessities of a saltwater and freshwater aquarium in order for marine life to
survive.
Compare the similarities between the necessities of a saltwater and freshwater aquarium in order for marine life
to survive.
List the necessities to produce a healthy saltwater aquarium and a healthy freshwater aquarium.
Determine which life-cycle is easier to maintain.
Produce:
Formulate the requirements needed to have a successful aquarium.
Design a creative environment for each aquarium.
Develop a saltwater and a freshwater aquarium.
Communicate:
Display aquarium in class for others to observe.
Interact within groups to discuss marine behaviors.
Write a daily log of marine behaviors.
Evaluate:
Assess which tank the marine life survived the longest.
Judge which tank was the easiest to maintain.
Discuss what can be improved the next time an aquarium is constructed.
| Performance Indicator | Assessment tool |
| Record observations on a data table. | Check list |
| Measure temperature of an object using metric units. | Checklist |
| After using the science process skills in hands-on group investigations, the students will (a) record data and measurements, (b) report the results collaboratively from an observational and comparative scientific investigation. | Graphic Organizer Rubric |
| Identify and classify animals from different groups. | Test |
Teacher Resources
| Saltwater Fish Guide |
| http://saltwaterfish.com/ |
| What You Need to Know About |
| http://fresh aquarium.about.com/cs/beginner info/ |
| Saltwater Tank Guide |
| http://www.bluebin.com/saltwaterlinks.html |
| Beginning Your First Fresh Water Guide |
| http://firstaquarium.tripod.com/ |
| The Fish Information Guide |
| http://www.actwin.com/fish/index.php |