Science 7
IE7.2
Observe, illustrate, and analyze living organisms within local ecosystems as part of interconnected food webs, populations, and communities.
SI
Indicators for this outcome
| (a) |
Illustrate the ecological organization of life within the biosphere, using specific examples of species, populations, communities, ecosystems, and biomes. |
| (b) |
Provide examples of ecosystems of varying sizes and locations, including their biotic and abiotic components. |
| (c) |
Conduct a field study to observe, record (using sketches, notes, tables, photographs, and/or video recordings), and identify biotic and abiotic components of a local ecosystem. |
| (d) |
Show respect for all forms of life when examining ecosystems. |
| (e) |
Examine the biotic and abiotic components of distant ecosystems using photographs, videos, or online resources. |
| (f) |
Choose and use appropriate instruments (e.g., magnifying glass, thermometer, light meter, hand-held microscope, and digital camera) safely, effectively, and accurately to observe and illustrate biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems. |
| (g) |
Compile and display ecological data to illustrate the various interactions that occur among biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems. |
| (h) |
Identify strengths and weaknesses of different methods of collecting and displaying ecological data (e.g., compare field observations of an ecosystem with observations from a video or television program, compare a food chain with a food web). |
| (i) |
Classify organisms in a variety of ecosystems as producers, consumers, or decomposers and further classify consumers as herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores. |
| (j) |
Interpret interdependence within natural systems by constructing food chains and food webs to illustrate the interactions among producers, consumers, and decomposers in a particular ecosystem. |
| (k) |
Construct a classification key, using appropriate scientific terminology, which will enable classmates to differentiate between producers, consumers, and decomposers. |
| (l) |
Provide examples of organizations in Canada that support scientific research related to ecosystems (e.g., environmental conservation groups, federal and provincial government departments, agricultural and marine institutes, universities, and colleges). |
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R041220
Project WILD Activity Guide
The 2002 Project WILD Activity Guide features activities designed to develop awareness, knowledge, skills and the environment. Through many of the activities, students are engaged in informed decision making in which they consider the impact of their actions on the ecosystem. Each multigrade activity includes objectives, method, background information, materials and procedures, as well as extension and evaluation ideas. The activity guide contains seven sections: Awareness and Appreciation; Diversity of Wildlife Values; Ecological Principles, Management and Conservation; People, Culture and Wildlife; Trends, Issues, and Consequences; and Responsible Human Actions. Teachers are encouraged to select and adapt activities that align with curriculum outcomes and meet the needs of students.
Project WILD activity guides are free to teachers who attend a Project WILD workshop. These workshops provide an opportunity to experience the activities and to actively plan how to use them in the classroom. A modest registration fee will cover workshop materials and expenses.
Project WILD activity guides are free to teachers who attend a Project WILD workshop. These workshops provide an opportunity to experience the activities and to actively plan how to use them in the classroom. A modest registration fee will cover workshop materials and expenses.
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Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
Free to workshop participants
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R052013
Below Zero
Below Zero is an instructional resource for educators teaching about natural resources within winter and frozen environments. Designed to complement the Project WILD Activity Guide, the activities in Below Zero promote awareness, knowledge, skills and responsible behaviour towards wildlife in winter environments. The activity guide contains four sections: Awareness and Appreciation, Habitat and Ecological Principles, Adaptation and Responsible Human Actions. Teachers are encouraged to select and adapt activities from this resource that align with curriculum outcomes and meet the needs of students.
Below Zero activity guides are free to teachers attending a Below Zero workshop, often offered in conjunction with Project WILD workshops. These workshops provide an opportunity to experience the activities and to plan how to use them in the classroom. A modest registration fee covers workshop materials and expenses.
Below Zero activity guides are free to teachers attending a Below Zero workshop, often offered in conjunction with Project WILD workshops. These workshops provide an opportunity to experience the activities and to plan how to use them in the classroom. A modest registration fee covers workshop materials and expenses.
(More information)
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
Free to workshop participants
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R049385
Ecology Fundamentals
This video introduces students to some of the fundamental principles in ecology - the study of how living things interact with each other and with their environment. The different types of living and non-living things found in an ecosystem are discussed. Examples of the interaction of living and non-living factors are provided. Other terminology includes: ecology, ecosystem, community, population, habitat, niche, biotic factors, abiotic factors, producer, consumer, decomposer, predator, prey, energy and food chain.
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Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$49.95
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R052176
Fall Comes to Lac La Ronge
Fall Comes to Lac La Ronge is a 15 minute video produced by Randy Johns and Richard Frisky for KCDC. It details the cycle of the seasons as they slowly transform from the glory of summer to the splendour of fall. How various life forms prepare for fall is highlighted, including the migration patterns of pelicans and bald eagles. The film describes the beaver, how they use the trembling aspen trees in the region, as well as Grey Owl's conservation efforts to protect them. The film also features the track The Silent Scream by Ion.
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Links :
Media and Formats :
Video
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R002341
Carbon Capture and Storage. Teacher Resource Grade 7
This resource provides lesson ideas on two main themes: First Nations perspectives on ecosystems and an introduction to carbon capture and storage technology.
Media and Formats :
Document
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
April 26, 2019
R011314
Our Incredible World Series
This video series examines an urban wetland. Jesse and Seka pursue a science project on biodiversity. They decide to survey the life in a cattail marsh to build a case to preserve the wetland. Through each episode in the series, Jesse and Seka learn about the species in the wetland, how to take data to substantiate their claims, how to classify the various species, how the various species adapt to live in the wetland and present their findings to city councillors and the land owner.
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Classification Practice and Learning About Microorganisms
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Discovering the World of Biodiversity
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Identification Practice and Understanding Classification Systems
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Presentation of Findings: Understanding Human Impact
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Sampling the Life Forms in an Urban Wetland
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Understanding Adaptation to Specific Habitats
Links :
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$89.00 ea.
Record posted/updated:
July 2, 2020
R043353
Essential Atlas of Ecology
This ecological reference book offers informative text, photos, diagrams, illustrations and charts related to the Earth's environment and the interactions of animals and plants within the environment. The book begins with an overview of the basic physical features of an ecosystem including the biosphere; the atmosphere, soil and climate; the cycles of matter; and the ecological pyramid. The next section focuses on living beings in an ecosystem, particularly competition and predation, population changes and biodiversity. Section three outlines the range of biomes existing on our planet and the fourth section explores ecological-related issues around pollution, agriculture, transportation, technology and energy. The resource includes a table of contents and a subject index.
(More information)
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$12.99
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071609
Ecology. Life at the Edge of the Sea
This video program documents life in ocean tide pools for organisms such as starfish, snails, sea cucumbers and rock octopus. Symbiotic relationships and the struggle for food in a hostile environment are major themes.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$49.95
Record posted/updated:
July 1, 2020
R019211
Concentus Citizenship Education Resources. Grade 7: The Intentional & Explicit Teaching of Essential Citizenship Competencies
Students begin to investigate and understand the various types of power and governance within their own country at the local, regional, provincial, national and global levels. As the understanding of the levels of power that govern Canada develop, students compare and contrast those structures and processes with countries operating within Pacific Rim and circumpolar regions that do not operate as democracies.
Links :
Download
Media and Formats :
Document
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
January 21, 2019
R036422
Focused Study. Food Web and Native Plants of Saskatchewan. Grade 7
This unit will help students gain an understanding of the intricacies of local food webs by focusing on the interrelationships supported by a specific native plant.
Links :
Download
Media and Formats :
Document
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
April 27, 2019
R071670
The Bulrush Helps the Pond = Otawask wicihtaw tawanipeyanik
Written in Swampy Cree and English, this book provides students with an appreciation of the diversity and fragility of the prairie wetland ecosystem. Mr. Carriere describes the bulrushes through the seasons and how the various animals, insects and birds rely on the bulrushes and ponds for survival. The book demonstrates that traditional First Nations knowledge is parallel to Western science.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$9.99
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R035315
Saskatchewan Wayside Wildflowers
Over one hundred Saskatchewan wildflowers, divided into five broad groups, are described in this resource. Each of the one-page layouts contains notes on the edibility and medicinal uses, blooming times, and habitats where the plants are found. As well, there is a close-up colour photograph to assist with identification.The introduction includes tips for identifying wildflowers and how to distinguish them from noxious weeds and dangerous wildflowers. An index is provided.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$16.95
Record posted/updated:
January 4, 2019
R047215
Ecology Series
The Ecology Series is a four-part video program that looks at ecology and ecosystems. Each program is 20 minutes in length and focuses on key concepts and terminology related to the topic. Topics include: The Biosphere, Ecosystem Dynamics, Natural Cycles and People and the Environment.
Each binder contains suggested teaching ideas, student activities and key terminology. Extra features of the DVD include indexes, labelled slides, glossary, animations, English subtitles and an iMovie project.
Each binder contains suggested teaching ideas, student activities and key terminology. Extra features of the DVD include indexes, labelled slides, glossary, animations, English subtitles and an iMovie project.
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Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$399.00
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R053168
Our Incredible World Series
Two budding scientists, Jasmine and Sam, investigate scientific cases. A make-shift lab is the starting point for their adventures in science.
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Alien Invaders
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Mission Possible
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$89.00 (1 DVD)
Record posted/updated:
August 29, 2019
R071711
Saskatchewan's Native Prairie: Taking Stock of a Vanishing Ecosystem and Dwindling Resource
This booklet presents information on Saskatchewan's native prairie. It briefly examines the impact of settlement on the region and the importance of the prairie landscape to culture and heritage. Maps, charts and graphs, focusing on the southern half of the province, illustrate prairie ecoregions, vegetation cover and soil capability. Threats to the prairie landscape are identified, as well as conservation initiatives. Numerous sources of additional information are provided.
Links :
Download
Media and Formats :
Document
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
July 31, 2019
R071571
From Pole to Pole
This video program examines the planet as a whole and the factors that shaped its history. Sun and fresh water govern the lives of all plants and animals on Earth and define their habitats. Seasons are created by the tilt of the Earth's orbit to the sun. A polar bear must prepare her cubs for the journey across the frozen sea. Habitats discussed in the program include the ocean, the desert and the Arctic.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$144.95 (complete Planet Earth series)
Record posted/updated:
July 1, 2020
R050388
Pearson Saskatchewan Science 7. Student Text
Saskatchewan Science 7 is custom published for Saskatchewan and developed by a team of Saskatchewan teachers. Each unit starts with a list of Big Ideas that sets the focus for the unit. A Big Idea then provides the title for each section in the unit. Throughout the unit, opportunities are provided for students to work together, communicate ideas, perform experiments and carry out library and Internet research. Key vocabulary is bolded throughout the unit and an explanation of each term is provided. All key terms and explanations are also listed in a glossary at the back of the text. First Nations and Métis content, perspectives and ways of knowing are an integral part of the Saskatchewan science text. Highlights of the activities and achievements of Saskatchewan men and women are provided in the "Ask ..." feature. In each unit, the "Ask ..." feature provides access to the wisdom of a First Nations or Métis Elder or Traditional Knowledge Keeper, who shares an oral story related to the content of that unit.
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Pearson Saskatchewan Science 7. Student Edition E-Book CD
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Pearson Saskatchewan Science 7. Teacher Resource
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$102.38
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071659
Life Processes of Plants
This DVD touches on the classification of plants and on the role of plants as producers in an ecosystem. It examines plant cells in relation to animal cells and explains the process of photosynthesis. Sexual and asexual reproduction in plants are illustrated using diagrams, animations and photographs.
Teachers should select portions of the program that relate directly to specific learning outcomes.
Teachers should select portions of the program that relate directly to specific learning outcomes.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$149.00
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R038760
Native Plants, Water and Us!
This booklet offers general information on aquatic ecosystems, their functions and the important roles that native plants play within them. This resource focuses on aquatic ecosystems and the associated native vegetation in an agricultural context. Included are a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and Saskatchewan contacts.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
Contact the NPSS for a free copy
Record posted/updated:
July 31, 2019
R043349
Grasslands
This video program explores the characteristics of a grassland biome. It illustrates the effect of climate on soil type, vegetation and wildlife. Abiotic and biotic factors are introduced and a straightforward demonstration clarifies their relationship. The program addresses agricultural practices that support or destroy grassland habitats. Plant adaptations and food chains are also discussed.
Teachers may wish to use other programs from the Biomes of the World in Action series. Program titles include Coniferous Forest, Deciduous Forests, Deserts, Freshwater Ecosystems, Marine Ecosystems, Rainforest Biomes and Tundra.
Teachers may wish to use other programs from the Biomes of the World in Action series. Program titles include Coniferous Forest, Deciduous Forests, Deserts, Freshwater Ecosystems, Marine Ecosystems, Rainforest Biomes and Tundra.
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Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$119.99
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R011210
Keepers of Life: Discovering Plants Through Native Stories and Earth Activities for Children
This resource contains traditional First Nations stories, information and activities to reinforce the need for balance in ecology. The book looks at the relationships among people and the natural world and provides opportunities for the integration of literary response and scientific investigation. Included are a table of contents, numerous line drawings, a glossary, an index of activities and a general index.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$33.95
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071709
Prairie Phoenix: The Red Lily, Lilium Philadelphicum, in Saskatchewan
Written by Saskatchewan authors Bonnie Lawrence and Anna Leighton, and published by Nature Saskatchewan, this full-colour book celebrates the Western Red Lily, the floral emblem of Saskatchewan. A copy of this resource was distributed to schools in Saskatchewan in March 2006.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$24.95
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071566
Sponges
Part of the animal phyla, the sponges' structure, function, classification and ecological roles is examined in this video. Using animations and time-lapse microscopy, students will understand the developmental, ecological and evolutionary nature of sponges.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$98.00
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R052953
Way Cool Science. All About Ecosystems and Biomes
In this video program, students learn about the seven major biomes on Earth. They also discover the symbiotic relationships between life species, how plants and animals have adapted to survive in the biomes and that individual biomes exist within each major biome.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$63.98
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071696
Time Planet Earth: An Illustrated History
This resource covers many topics in the renewed science curriculum. Using the ancient Greek division of the world using spheres, the authors examine the atmosphere (air), pedosphere (land), biosphere (living), hydrosphere (water), cryosphere (frozen) and geosphere (subterranean). The animals, plants and landforms that exist within each sphere are described. Photographs illustrate to readers the diversity of life within the sphere. The book includes a table of contents and an index.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$32.95
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R071565
Echinoderms
This video examines echinoderms, the branch to which Chordates also belong. Five classes are highlighted: sea stars, brittle stars and basket stars, sea urchins and sand dollars, sea cucumbers and crinoids. Phylum characteristics and biological details are provided.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$98.00
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R054783
After Life: The Strange Cycle of Decay
This video explains decomposition, one of nature's most important processes. For two months in the summer of 2011, a glass box containing food laid out from a typical kitchen and garden for a family of four was left to rot in full public view within Edinburgh Zoo. In this resulting documentary, presenter Dr. George McGavin and his team use time-lapse cameras and 3-D photography to capture the way in which moulds, microbes and insects are able to break down our everyday things and allow new life to emerge from old. The film reveals the incredible science of taphonomy, discovering what happens to organic matter as it starts to decompose. Whole new ecosystems of life invade, each more complex than you would ever expect. The micro-organisms involved in turning milk sour, lactobacillus, are highlighted; in addition to pseudomonas, micro-organisms that make meat smell; and botrytis cinerea, those that make fruit and vegetables go velvety grey.
Microbiology gives us insight into the part played by bacteria, yeasts and fungi. Biochemistry reveals how the chemical processes in living organisms cause change. Entymology reveals the vital role of insects in the great cycle of decay. The video also explores the incredible science behind preservation, from new food packaging and chemical additives to UV radiation and osmotic pressures.
Microbiology gives us insight into the part played by bacteria, yeasts and fungi. Biochemistry reveals how the chemical processes in living organisms cause change. Entymology reveals the vital role of insects in the great cycle of decay. The video also explores the incredible science behind preservation, from new food packaging and chemical additives to UV radiation and osmotic pressures.
(More information)
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R071683
Natural Neighbours: Selected Mammals of Saskatchewan
Natural Neighbours: Selected Mammals of Saskatchewan focuses on various mammals found in Saskatchewan and describes their appearance, habits, food, habitat, survival strategies, ecological relationships, status and range. The mammals chosen for the book tend to be widely distributed in the province, are well-known by the public and are most likely to be seen. The book also promotes a better understanding of the human relationship with the environment.
The book was compiled by and co-published with Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management.
The book was compiled by and co-published with Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management.
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Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$19.95
Record posted/updated:
July 8, 2024
R071658
Interdependence
Scientists in various fields of life science explain the flow of energy through an ecosystem. They discuss biotic and abiotic factors, as well as the roles of producers and consumers. The DVD encourages viewers to consider the impact of humans on ecosystems and on biogeochemical cycles such as the carbon cycle, the nitrogen cycle, the phosphorous cycle and the hydrological cycle.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$149.00
Record posted/updated:
July 31, 2019
R071572
Great Plains
This video examines the great plains on earth. The great plains cover more than one-quarter of the land on the planet and at the heart of the plains is grass. Grass feeds wildlife around the planet. Great plains described in this program include the African savanna, the Asian steppe, the Arctic tundra and the North American prairie.
Media and Formats :
CD/DVD
Price :
$144.95 (complete Planet Earth series)
Record posted/updated:
July 1, 2020
R055401
The Eco-Diary of Kiran Singer
Kiran explores the environmental problems threatening her local wetland. For her birthday, Kiran is given a diary by her grandma. She is invited by her grandma to help her and a conservation crew to restore a bog in Vancouver, BC. Using poetic form, Kiran expresses her thoughts about the bog and the various life species that live there. Through the text, students should be inspired to help protect wetlands in their local communities.
Media and Formats :
Book
Price :
$18.95
Record posted/updated:
November 28, 2018
R040816
Saskatchewan Native Wildlife Series
The posters in the Saskatchewan Native Wildlife Series feature illustrations of the diverse wildlife found in our province. Information about each animal, including physical features, food, habitat and babies, are provided on the poster as well as in accompanying notes for educators. Individual titles in the series include: Grouse, Partridge and Pheasants of Saskatchewan; Wild Cats and Dogs of Saskatchewan; Wild Hoofed Animals of Saskatchewan; Wild Rabbits and Hare, Big Rodents and Bear of Saskatchewan; and Wild Weasels of Saskatchewan.
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Media and Formats :
Other
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
December 9, 2018
R009254
Muskrats and Fire
Muskrats and Fire, written by Renée Carrière in collaboration with Charlebois Community School students in Cumberland House, provides a personal account of their journey to answer the question: Where have all the muskrats gone? The book weaves historical and present-day teachings shared by community Knowledge Keepers with the Saskatchewan K-12 curriculum. Stories centre around one Cree dialect and the cultural experiences of a specific community. It is not meant to encompass all Indigenous communities or cultural practices.
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Links :
Click here
Media and Formats :
Document
Price :
Free
Record posted/updated:
April 9, 2019