In this text resource, students read about different biogeochemical cycles in nature, such as the carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, and sulfur cycle.
Students will also learn about bioremediation and a specific example of this in the "Meningitis Belt" of Africa.
Teaching Tips
Positives
The resource includes learning objectives and checks for understanding questions to guide students.
The color graphics on the different biogeochemical cycles aid in understanding.
Additional Prerequisites
This resource is a very detailed view of these cycles at the microorganism level. It would be helpful for students to have a basic understanding of these cycles before reading.
The fluency level of students should be considered before reading the text, so accommodations can be made.
Differentiation
The visual aids can be used for ELL and ESE students to understand the steps of each cycle.
Teachers can consider using reading comprehension strategies like chunking the text or mixed ability groupings.
Chemistry classes can use this resource to explore the different types of chemical reactions that drive these cycles.
This resource can be used in Earth science classes to learn about the interactions between the hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere throughout the carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycles.
Biology classes can focus on microorganisms that are essential to these cycles.
Scientist Notes
This resource is suitable for students to learn the Biogeochemical cycle, processes, and pathways in our biosphere. This is recommended.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
ESS2: Earth's Systems
HS-ESS2-6 Develop a quantitative model to describe the cycling of carbon among the hydrosphere, atmosphere, geosphere, and biosphere.
LS1: From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
HS-LS1-5 Use a model to illustrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.
LS2: Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
HS-LS2-4 Use mathematical representations to support claims for the cycling of matter and flow of energy among organisms in an ecosystem.
HS-LS2-5 Develop a model to illustrate the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the cycling of carbon among the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
