An ecosystem is a natural unit consisting of all of all the living organisms (plants, animals, and microbes) in a given area functioning together with all the non living physical factors of the environment. They are all linked together through nutrient cycling and energy flow. An ecosystem can be varying sizes so long as it functions as a whole — a log, a forest or even the Earth’s biosphere.

When outdoors, observe and record a small ecosystem like a log or a pond.

A biome is a larger regional area of distinctive plants and animals. At Thinkquest.org, there are small audio files to listen to for each biome. Have a young child close their eyes and imagine what it would be like to be a plant or animal living there.

Older students can research the varying climate and variables of each biome and create a comparison chart.

Other Resources

• The Integration of Science and Math Through Ecosystems