For children in Grade 7 learning about life systems 

From the Curriculum:

During investigations, the students will observe existing ecosystems and investigate factors that may affect balances within the system. Students will learn that ecosystems consist of communities of plants and animals that are dependent on each other as well as on the non-living parts of the environment.

Big Ideas:

• Ecosystems are made up of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) elements, which depend on each other to survive.
• Ecosystems are in a constant state of change. The changes may be caused by nature or by human intervention.
• Human activities have the potential to alter the environment. Humans must be aware of these impacts and try to control them.