The purpose of the Module 2 Lab is to explore ecosystem components and dynamics.
You will have the opportunity to develop skills/knowledge in:
- defining basic ecology terms and concepts, such as biome, productivity, biodiversity, etc.
- distinguishing biotic from abiotic ecosystem components and processes
- defining soil properties and differentiating good versus poor soil health
- analyzing the relationship between soil health, climate change and grazers
- evaluating the use of grass-based livestock to enhance soil health and store atmospheric carbon
In order to complete this module, you will complete the following tasks:
- Answer the questions on the following word document assignmentActions and submit on this assignment page.
- Reference the What to do Module 2 page and the following phosphorus cycle figure in the lab.
Figure - "Phosphorus Cycle" (Links to an external site.) by Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.
Use the following criteria/tips for success:
- Reference the grading rubric for this assignment
- Don't forget that you have a lab group discussion page!
Rubric
Module 2 Lab
| Criteria | Ratings | Pts | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeList the abiotic reservoirs for phosphorus in the ecosystem shown. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeList the biotic reservoirs for phosphorus in the ecosystem shown. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWhat biome could you imagine this ecosystem be a part of? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeBased on the biome you chose, how would you compare biodiversity in the figure to other biomes on the planet? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeRevisit the “Net Primary Productivity” figure on the What to do Module 2 page. Compare the primary productivity of the biome you chose for the image depicted with the primary productivity of other biomes? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWhere is water stored in the ecosystem depicted in the Phosphorus Cycle figure? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would water cycle from one reservoir to another in the ecosystem depicted in the Phosphorus Cycle figure? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeList two natural, biotic processes by which phosphorus is cycling in the phosphorus cycle diagram. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeList two natural, abiotic processes by which phosphorus is cycling in the phosphorus cycle diagram. If this were the carbon cycle, gas exchange between the atmosphere and the ocean would be an abiotic process that cycles carbon. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeList two anthropogenic processes by which phosphorus is cycling in the phosphorus cycle diagram. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeUse the information from the Living Soil Beneath our Feet video (What to do Module 2 page) or elsewhere on the module pages, to describe the role of living organisms in the carbon cycle process, moving carbon from one place to another, and/or transforming carbon compounds to new carbon compounds. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDescribe how carbon can be recycled back into the soil if the soil is covered by vegetation. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCompare the specific roles of nitrifying bacteria, decomposers and denitrifying bacteria in the plant/soil ecosystem. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome. Describe at least one way the nitrogen cycle and the carbon cycle are interconnected in soil. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDescribe the role of soil in the carbon cycle. |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow do microbes change the amount of carbon compounds in the soil and carbon dioxide in the air? |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would the following strategies increase carbon in soil and protect crops against drought: Rotating cattle grazing instead of grazing in one large field all season |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would the following strategies increase carbon in soil and protect crops against drought: Planting a cover crop instead of letting fields lie bare |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would the following strategies increase carbon in soil and protect crops against drought: Using polyculture instead of monoculture |
| 5.0 pts | ||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would the following strategies increase carbon in soil and protect crops against drought: Creating natural fertilizer instead of using artificial fertilizer (N-P-K) |
| 5.0 pts | ||