Materials Required:
Clear plastic containers or glass jars with lids (e.g., terrariums)
Soil
Small plants (e.g., moss, ferns)
Small insects (e.g., ants, beetles) or small aquatic creatures (e.g., snails, shrimp) if appropriate
Small rocks or pebbles
Water
Optional: Small class pet (e.g., fish, hermit crab)
Steps Involved:
Begin by discussing the concept of an ecosystem with the students, explaining the roles of plants, animals, and the environment.
Have students help set up the mini ecosystems by adding a layer of small rocks or pebbles to the bottom of the plastic containers for drainage.
Add soil on top of the rocks or pebbles.
Plant small plants into the soil, arranging them to create a balanced mini ecosystem.
Introduce small insects or aquatic creatures if applicable, ensuring they are suitable for the chosen ecosystem.
Water the plants and creatures as needed, maintaining a balance in the mini ecosystem.
Place the containers in a location with appropriate light and temperature conditions.
Monitor the mini ecosystems regularly, discussing with students how the plants and creatures interact and depend on each other.
Optionally, if you choose to have a class pet, ensure proper care and maintenance while integrating it into the classroom discussions about ecosystems.