Spine-Backed Globster

Protecting an Ecosystem with Engineering Skills

Grades 6-12

NGSS MS-ETS1-1NGSS MS-ETS1-2NGSS MS-ETS1-3NGSS MS-LS2-4NGSS MS-LS2-5

Storyline

Using their knowledge of the engineering process, the crew will help control an invasive species population to restore biodiversity to a marine ecosystem.

An invasive alien creature is wreaking havoc on a marine coral reef ecosystem off the coast of Taipan. The crew must first work together to analyze data in order to determine why the creature is causing so many problems. Then, students will write a proposal for a solution to eliminate the infestation.

Est. time: 40 min.

Targeted Standards

NGSS MS-ETS1-1 Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.

NGSS MS-ETS1-2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

NGSS MS-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.

NGSS MS-LS2-4 Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.

NGSS MS-LS2-5 Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

There is a delicate balance in ecosystems that can be affected by humans.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

The crew identifies the problem of the invasive species and frames the challenge of finding a solution to mitigate its impact.

Developing and Using Models

The crew uses data to develop a model of the problem and design a solution.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

The crew analyzes data to understand the impact of the Globster on the coral reef ecosystem and the effectiveness of different solutions.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The crew evaluates various solutions and designs a plan to address the invasive species problem.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew is given data for potential solutions to the infestation. They work as a team to analyze the data and plan a design to remove the Globster population.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

The crew investigates the cause and effect relationship between the invasive Spine-Backed Globster and the decline of the coral reef ecosystem.

Systems and System Models

The coral reef ecosystem is depicted as a system where different elements interact, and the crew analyzes how changes in one part (the Globster) impact the entire system.

Stability and Change

The crew analyzes data that projects changes in biodiversity and seagrass population in reaction to different solutions. They use critical thinking to determine the best solution.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

The invasive Spine-Backed Globster's impact on the coral reef ecosystem demonstrates the interconnected relationships between organisms in an ecosystem.

ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

The data highlights the negative impact of human-introduced invasive species on an ecosystem.

ETS1.A: Defining and Delimiting Engineering Problems

The crew identifies and defines the problem of the invasive species and the resulting ecosystem damage.

ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions

The crew evaluates various solutions to address the invasive species issue, considering criteria and constraints.

ETS1.C: Optimizing the Design Solution

The crew selects the most effective solution that minimally impacts the ecosystem while targeting the invasive species.