Climate Change Lesson 9 : Plant and Animal Phenology
Phenology is an old science with a new and highly relevant application. It is defined as the branch of ecology that explores the seasonal timing of the life cycle events of different plant and animal species. These life cycle events – leaf emergence, flowering, mating, hibernation, and so forth – often are responses to seasonal weather conditions. As such, they can be indicators of climate change.
In this two-part lesson, students first explore phenological changes through an analysis of phenological observations. In part two students examine the effects of seasons with longer degree days and spring freeze, and consider projections into the future, focusing their efforts on tart cherry production in Michigan.
A lesson extension provides instructions for making their own phenological observations in the local community.
Students will answer these essential questions:
What is phenology and what are possible implications of phenological changes to the state economy?
What impacts could these changes have on Michigan agriculture?
Subject/Target Grade
Science/ Middle School and High School
Duration
Two 45-50 minute periods – Classroom setting Extension Lesson – Outdoors
Materials
From MEECS Climate Change Resource DVD
• Plant and Animal Phenology Instructional PowerPoint
• Michigan Cherries and Climate Change (answer key)
• Michigan Cherries and Climate Change (student booklet)
per class
• Comparing Phenological Observations (answer key)
• Michigan Cherries and Climate Change (answer key)
per student
• Phenology Over Time (student resource)
• Comparing Phenological Observations (student activity)
• Michigan Cherries and Climate Change (student booklet)