Invasive Species Game

In this lesson and game, students will learn about invasive species in Michigan, characteristics that make species good invaders, factors that can influence plant community assembly, and the role that people play in causing and proliferating invasions.

At the conclusion of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Provide examples of invasions causing economic and ecological concerns in Michigan
• Identify characteristics (traits) that are common among many invasive species
• Present information on the role that people play in the establishment and spread of invasive species
• Recognize some common native and invasive plant species in Michigan
• Talk about populations, communities, and the niche

Resources:

• Invasive Species Game – Lesson Plan
• Invasive Species of Michigan – Intro Powerpoint 
• Species Cards – to make your own copy of the game
• Event Spinner & Stage Signs – to make your own copy of the game (some assembly required)

Lesson plan and game created by GK-12 Fellows Elizabeth Schultheis & Melissa Kjelvik, 2010