Students use a set of Invasive Species Picture Cards to learn about 30 invasive species affecting both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the Great Lakes region. Students use the cards to classify the organisms according to their habitat type, method of introduction, origin, and date of arrival. Students then identify strategies for preventing the introduction of new species or the spread of existing ones.

Students answer these essential questions: How do invasive species threaten Michigan biodiversity? How can we prevent their spread?

As additional resources, several extension lessons related to invasive species are provided on the MEECS Ecosystems & Biodiversity CD.

Subject/Target Grade

Science and Social Studies/

Upper Elementary & Middle School (4-6)

Duration

45 minutes – Classroom setting

Materials

per class

• 1 ball of twine or string

• 1 set of Invasive Species Picture Cards (30 cards)

• 1 set of Problem-Solver Role Play Cards (10 cards)

Michigan Grade Level Content Expectations

Science:

• Describe the effect humans and other organisms have on the balance of the natural world. S.RS.04.18, S.RS.05.17, S.RS.06.17

• Explain how environmental changes can produce a change in the food web. L.EC.04.21

• Describe how human beings are part of the ecosystem of the Earth and that human activity can purposefully, or accidentally, alter the balance in ecosystems. L.EC.06.41

• Predict possible consequences of overpopulation of organisms, including humans. L.EC.06.42

Social Studies:

• Describe past and current threats to Michigan’s natural resources; describe how Michigan worked in the past and continues to work today to protect its natural resources. 4 – H3.0.8

• Explain how and why ecosystems differ as a consequence of differences in latitude, elevation, and human activities. 6-G3.2.1