Exploring the Role of Mushrooms in Matter Movement

Lesson Overview

Objective:
Students will develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers (specifically mushrooms), and the environment. By the end of the lesson, students will understand the importance of mushrooms in nutrient cycling and ecosystem health.

Essential Question

   1.   How do plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment interact to cycle matter within an ecosystem?
   2.   What is the role of decomposers, such as mushrooms, in breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil?
   3.   How does the presence of mushrooms affect the balance and health of an ecosystem?
   4.   What are some ways that matter moves among different components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment?
   5.   How can we develop a model to visually represent the movement of matter within an ecosystem, highlighting the role of mushrooms?

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Science

Materials Needed: What’s Wild Video- Mushrooms • Pictures or samples of different types of mushrooms • Large poster paper or whiteboard • Markers • Index cards • Glue • Scissors • Internet access (optional for additional research)

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Standards

5-LS2 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
- 5-LS2-1 Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.