Purpose:
The purpose of this activity is to survey different energy-related elements (sunlight, soil moisture, temperature, and wind) to investigate how they affect the living elements, such as plants and animals, in an ecosystem.
Steps:
1. Print out this survey to help in your investigation.
2. Choose two ecosystems to compare in your backyard or school grounds (an ecosystem can consist of anything from a rotting log to your entire backyard). Tools such as a light meter, thermometer, compass, and strips of paper can be used to help obtain certain survey items. You may also wish to check your local weather station.
3. Answer the following questions.
4. Submit answers if required by instructor.