3.1.6 Project.docx - 3.1.6 Project: Explore Your Local...

3.1.6 Project: Explore Your Local Ecosystem
Environmental Science Sem 1
Yumna Jafri
18 February 2020
Part 1: Background Check (5 points)
1. Read all the instructions for the project, including the questions you will answer after your observations
are complete.
2. During the project, you will use multiple online sources. Explore the websites listed on the landing
page of this assignment.
a. Identify the websites you think are reliable sources of information and describe your reasons
for these selections. (1 point)
b. Identify the websites you think are not reliable sources of information, and describe your
reasons for these selections. (1 point)
3. Describe the ecosystem in which you live. Include information about the climate (temperatures and
precipitation), abiotic factors (soil, water, winds, light, etc.), and biotic factors (plants and animals). (3
points)
Part 2: Observations and Data Collection (30 points)
Explore and Research

 Visit natural areas in and around the location where you live and observe the abiotic (nonliving)
and biotic (living) factors in those areas.
 If you live in an area that is not natural (a city, a farm, or another area that does not represent the
natural environment), visit as many nearby natural areas as possible.
 If you can't visit and directly observe a natural area, talk to someone at a local garden center, zoo,
park, or school, or research the ecosystem of your area online.
 After you observe the abiotic and biotic factors in your area, use the Internet to learn more about
the ecosystem of the area.
Be sure to:
Follow safe practices during this investigation.
Use discretion when selecting websites to view for research purposes.
Materials:
 Map of the area
 Binoculars
 Field guides
 Camera
 Pencil or pen
 Paper for recording observations
 Access to the Internet
Observe and Record Data
1. Observe the flora (plants) of your ecosystem.