In this resource from PBS, students will learn how animals in grasslands, like those in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda, work together to contribute to healthy grass, which leads to better carbon sequestration.
Students will understand the role of grazers, decomposers, and grasses in the carbon cycle.
In creating their own model of the carbon cycle, students will create a deeper understanding of this system than they would from just looking at a pre-made diagram.
The speaker in the video leaves viewers with an important theme of interconnectedness that is ever-present in Earth science topics.
Prerequisites
Teachers should note that the video includes footage of animals defecating.
Students will benefit from knowing the role that carbon plays in climate change, which will help them understand the importance of carbon sequestration.
Teachers will need to print and construct the carbon cycle cubes before implementing the lesson.
The answer key for the student worksheet is linked on the page, so teachers may not want to give students access to the page.
Differentiation & Implementation
Teachers can use the included vocabulary list for a variety of vocabulary activities, such as having students create their own vocabulary flashcards or play vocabulary charades.
Teachers can use this resource to demonstrate the importance of biodiversity. Teachers can transition to a conversation about how climate change and human impacts threaten biodiversity and Earth's systems.
To continue learning about the carbon cycle, teachers can also check out this resource, which gamifies the carbon cycle for students.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
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All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.
