Mar 192012
Mud, or sediment, is an active part of aquatic ecosystems. Sediment varies widely within and among ecosystems in its biotic and abiotic characteristics. In many ecosystems sediment can release excess phosphorus (a common aquatic pollutant) into the water column causing internal eutrophication
At the conclusion of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Observe and describe abiotic and biotic characteristics of sediment
- Recognize that the sediment and water in a lake carry phosphorus, which is necessary for life, but can have negative ecosystem effects at high levels
- Describe the difference between experimental control and treatment groups
- Use observations to support conclusions
Resources:
Lesson plan created by GK-12 Fellow Lauren Kinsman & teacher Liz Ratashak