Habitats: Epic 2nd/3rd Grade Classroom Mission

Storyline

Facing a bunch of misplaced organisms, students must apply their knowledge of habitats to move each organism into the right habitat.

The crew learns that Moodoo has misplaced several organisms in an attempt to disrupt the planet and foil the United Colonies of Earth. First, the crew will look at different habitats and find the organism that is misplaced. Then, they will look at a group of animals and decide what habitat they should call home.

Est. time: 34 min.

Targeted Standards

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

All organisms have an optimal habitat where they thrive. Not all organisms thrive in the same environments.

Science and Engineering Practices

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Crew members use the spaceship's sensors and scanners to collect data on the habitats and conditions of plants and animals on Sundras.

Developing and Using Models

Crew members build a mental model of the correct habitats for each animal and plant based on their observed characteristics.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The crew engages in discussions to determine the correct habitats for each animals and justifies their decisions with evidence.

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns

Observing and analyzing patterns in the habitat preference of plants and animals to identify their correct locations.

Cause and Effect

Understanding the cause-and-effect relationship between misplaced animals and plants and their declining health.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

The mission revolves around the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem and understanding the interrelationships between animals, plants, and their environment.

LS1.A: Structure and Function

The crew identifies the specific needs and characteristics of various animals and plants to determine their correct habitats.

LS2.B: Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems

The crew considers the impact of different climate and environmental conditions on Sundras and how they affect living organisms.

ESS2.A: Earth Materials and Systems

The crew observes and analyzes the conditions of the planet Sundras to understand its unique environment and how it affects the plants and animals.

ESS2.C: The Roles of Water in Earth’s Surface Processes

The crew takes into account the importance of water for different animals and how water availability influences the habitats.

ETS1.A: Defining and Delimiting Engineering Problems

The crew faces the engineering challenge of identifying suitable habitats for the misplaced animals based on their specific needs.

ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions

The crew engages in discussions to explore different solutions for placing the animals back into their correct habitats.

All Mixed Up