Introduction
Imagine you are an ecologist tasked with designing a self-sustaining ecosystem for a new habitat on Earth or even another planet! Your goal is to balance plants, animals, water, and energy so that your ecosystem thrives. Through this WebQuest, you will explore real-world ecosystems and apply your knowledge to create your own unique model.
Task
Your final product will be a creative representation of your ecosystem. You may choose to:
- Build a physical diorama or model
- Create a digital poster using Canva, PowerPoint, or similar tools
- Make an animated video or infographic
- Your ecosystem should demonstrate:
- Energy flow (producers, consumers, decomposers)
- Biodiversity and interdependence
- Adaptations of organisms to the environment
- Sustainability strategies
Process
Step 1: Research Existing Ecosystems
- Explore forests, deserts, oceans, wetlands, or grasslands.
- Identify organisms, climate, and natural resources.
Step 2: Plan Your Ecosystem
- Choose a habitat type (Earth-based or imaginary planet).
- Select plants and animals and explain their roles.
- Plan energy flow and resource cycles (food chain/web, water, nutrients).
Step 3: Create Your Ecosystem Model
- Build a diorama, digital poster, or video.
- Include labels and brief explanations for each component.
Step 4: Reflection
- Write a short paragraph explaining why your ecosystem is sustainable.
- Discuss challenges your ecosystem might face.
Evaluation
Criteria- Accuracy of Content
Description- All information is correct; some information is correct; many mistakes or missing info
Criteria- Creativity & Originality
Description-Very creative and unique; somewhat creative; little creativity
Criteria- Presentation/Design
Description- Clear, neat, easy to understand; mostly clear; hard to understand or messy
Criteria- Reflection
Description- Thoughtful explanation of sustainability; some explanation; little or no explanation
Conclusion
You have explored the delicate balance of ecosystems and applied your knowledge to create a sustainable environment. Reflect on how energy, biodiversity, and resources interact in the real world—and how small changes can impact an ecosystem’s survival.
Credits
WebQuest created by Hamsia
Resources and information adapted from:
National Geographic – Ecosystems
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/habitats
BBC Bitesize – Food Chains and Ecosystems
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zx882hv
NASA Climate & Habitats
Teacher Page
This WebQuest is designed for high school Science students to explore ecosystems through a creative, hands-on approach. Students will research ecosystems, plan a self-sustaining habitat, and present their work as a model, poster, or digital presentation.
The activity promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and understanding of energy flow, biodiversity, and sustainability.
Teachers can adapt the resources and rubric to fit their class needs.