Abiotic and Biotic Features

This web page, consisting of two lesson plans, provides students with the understanding of abiotic and biotic features in a system. Students will observe, predict, and complete a Venn diagram. Students will work in small groups to determine concepts and discuss differences. An assessment is included and can be used as either summative or  formative. Student handouts for Venn diagram is linked to site. This lesson can be adapted and the outside feature can be completed in the classroom if necessary. The lesson makes use of science notebooks for comparing and contrasting as well as having students predicting and analyzing their thoughts. Some planning time will be required to set up the lesson. Assessment can be adapted to classroom needs and extensions are provided.

Weblink address (URL): 
Abiotic and Biotic Features

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Intended Learning Outcomes:

  • Make observations.
  • Develop and use categories to classify observations.
  • Identify variable and describe relationships between them.
  • Know science terminology appropriate to grade level.
  • Understand science concepts and principles.
  • Distinguish between examples and non-examples of each concept.
  • Use the language and concepts of science as a means of thinking and communicating.
  • Construct a diagram to describe data.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 

Extensions:

  • The students could then create four smaller Venn diagrams. The circles are now labeled biotic factors in system, abiotic factors in system, and the intersections are labeled things in common.
  • The students are to list abiotic and biotic factors in the system that have something in common and then list this commonality in the intersection.
  • Some connecting ideas for the intersection could include color, location, or function. They could connect all the brown things, all the things that have soft surfaces, the things that provide shelter, the things that are in the soil, and things that are moved by the wind.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • String
  • Wooden stakes or rulers to tie string to
  • Venn diagram for each student (two intersecting circles)
  • A picture of a small system for each student

References

Contributors: 
Rhilda Gastineau
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation