BIOSPHERE
| Students profile/age of the student: | 10-12 years old |
| Climate change topic | Air pollution |
| Connected subject in the curriculum | Science, geography, physics |
| Skills and competencies to be developed | critical thinking, content knowledge, teamwork, listening skills |
| Terminology, keywords | Plants, Water, Soil, Biosphere |
| Teaching techniques and tools: | Storytelling, Observation skills, Demonstration |
| Materials needed: | – Mason jars with seals and lids – Clean sand/gravel – Activated charcoal – Plants, Water, Soil – Any decorative items that are desired (rocks, moss, etc.) |
| Materials offered | Additional links: www.teacher.org/lesson-plan/biosphere/ |
| The time needed for the activity | 30 – 45 Minutes |
Description
Notes – Students will follow directions to create a biosphere that is self-sustaining. Evaluation will be based on the creation of the biosphere and the ability for it to continue to grow and thrive for at least one month.
This lesson will allow students to create a self-sustaining biosphere, that can thrive for at least one month. Explain to students that they are going to create a mini biosphere using a mason jar. The key is to make sure everything is clean and airtight.
Begin by cleaning a mason jar very well to prevent mould growth. Mould will take over and kill the biosphere. Add a layer of sand or gravel, or a mix, to the bottom of the jar. Aquarium sand works well and is already clean.
Put about 2 to 4 cm worth in a quart size jar. On top of the sand place a small amount of activated charcoal, 1 to 2 cm is plenty. This will serve as a cleaning agent. Next, create a layer of draining soil, something such as cactus soil works well, but any good draining soil will work.
Next, decorate a bit. Add a small piece of wood or pebbles on top of the layers. Also add a couple slow growing plants and some moss that can tolerate warm, humid environments. It is optional to add a small bug or two like a cricket or worm if desired.
Finally, add water enough to saturate your sand, but not flood the biosphere. Seal the cap well and keep a watch on your biosphere. It should be self-sustaining now. Place the biosphere where it can get sunlight, but not direct sunlight or it could overheat.