Humans are an integral part of the natural system and human activities can alter the stability of ecosystems. Students will acquire a basic understanding of the structure of ecosystems and how they function and change. They will also study how humans can apply scientific and technological knowledge about ecosystems in making informed decisions about the use of natural resources. These interactions lead to a constant exchange of matter and energy. Plants derive energy from the sun for growth and survival.
Animals eat plants or other animals that have also eaten plants to satisfy energy needs.
Dead plants and animals are eaten by decomposers. Pollution and human activities can change the environment and adversely affect the health and survival of humans and other species. Carolina Biological Supply Co. After students make their own aquariums and terrariums , join them, and study of the effects of pollution on them, they study the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. With the help of instructors from BVA, the fifth graders from Warner have also been studying ecosystems much closer to home. With the guidance of the BVA staff, the students have gone to Brandywine Park and studied the field , the forest , and the river ecosystems.