Ecosystems | Small Group
Students work in small groups to learn what an ecosystem is, identify its parts, and explain how living and nonliving things depend on each other. The lesson uses simple examples, discussion, and a quick group task to support adult learners at a very easy level.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| ecosystem | A place where living and nonliving things work together. |
| living things | Plants, animals, and people that grow and need food, water, and air. |
| nonliving things | Things like water, air, sunlight, rocks, and soil. |
| habitat | The place where a plant or animal lives. |
| depend on | To need something in order to live or grow. |
Show one simple ecosystem image and ask: What living things do you see? What nonliving things do you see? Record ideas on the board.
Look at the image, name things they notice, and share ideas with the group.
Explain that an ecosystem includes living and nonliving things that affect each other. Use simple examples and point to items in the image.
Listen, repeat key words, and answer short questions.
Give each small group picture cards or words. Ask students to sort them into living and nonliving groups, then explain one choice.
Work together to sort cards and say why each item belongs in a group.
Give each group one ecosystem picture (pond, forest, desert, garden). Ask them to list or label 3 living things and 3 nonliving things, then tell how one thing depends on another.
Discuss the picture, complete the list or labels, and prepare one short group explanation.
Invite groups to share one example. Clarify misunderstandings and reinforce vocabulary.
Share answers, listen to other groups, and correct their work if needed.
Ask each student to answer 3 oral or written questions: What is an ecosystem? Name one living thing. Name one nonliving thing.
Respond individually and show understanding.
Review the key idea: an ecosystem is a place where living and nonliving things work together. Ask students to say one new word they learned and one thing they can find in an ecosystem.
Formative assessment through group discussion, sorting activity, and the final 3-question individual check. Use student responses to confirm understanding of ecosystem, living things, and nonliving things.