Invasive Species Lesson Plan and Game
Lesson Plan
1 hourGrades3, 4, 5Biology, Geography
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Written by Mallory Swafford
About this lesson
In this lesson, students learn how cultural practices can spread not only ideas and traditions, but also invasive species into new areas.
Inquire: Students watch a video outlining invasive species and write a summary outlining their new knowledge.
Investigate: Students play a digital game and a hands-on game to understand how invasive species can outcompete native species in their environments.
Inspire: Students use guided questions to conduct research about an invasive species in their community and create a presentation to spread awareness.
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Everything you need to teach it
How to edit these materials (video)Teaching tips
Positives
- This lesson features kinesthetic learning as students play Three Steps Forward, One Step Back.
- Students will develop a strong connection to self and community through learning about invasive species in their community.
- This lesson features excellent vocabulary development.
- Students learn through multiple games.
Additional Prerequisites
- One-to-one technology or cardstock with art supplies are required for poster creation.
- Students need access to research materials such as the Internet and/or books about invasive species.
Differentiation
- Groups of students with mixed abilities can collaborate on their educational posters.
- Possible Extension: Do a campus tour and have students take notes on species that could be invasive.
From the scientist review
This lesson gives students the go-ahead to explore the underlying cultural practices that could spread invasive species and ways to reduce the spread to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem. All materials embedded in the lesson are factual and accurate. That being so, this lesson has passed our science credibility review process and is recommended for teaching.
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About the teacher writer
Mallory Swafford
Teacher
I graduated in 2014 from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with a zoology degree. I worked in the field of zoology until 2018 when I decided to make the switch to education. I now am certified to teach first through sixth grades in general education. I am endorsed in middle grades science and I expect to finish my master's in high school biology this year. I love teaching science and am excited to work with the Subject to Climate team!
