Resource 2: Likely local ecosystems

 Teacher resource for planning or adapting to use with pupils

Probable ecosystems you and your pupils might like to consider include the following:

• life under a small rock or fallen tree trunk;
• a nearby tree;
• a hedge;
• the classroom itself (corner, cupboard, etc.);
• the local river, dam or lake;
• a nearby forest;
• a marsh or boggy area;
• a dry barren hillside;
• the household woodpile (watch out for snakes);
• a clump of bushes;
• a compost heap.

Record what pupils expect to find in their ecosystem in a table, example below:

Under a rock

Write pupils’ suggestions lightly in pencil to be rubbed out when the answers are filled in.