Learning is most exciting when there is opportunity to experience and discover what happens. Food Chain offers a practical way to conduct experiments and investigate a simple lake ecosystem. Students deepen their understanding of natural systems as they learn by doing.
Biology and Environmental Science classes at all levels, from middle school through high school and introductory college courses, use Food Chain to explore a virtual lake ecosystem and conduct computer simulation-based experiments to test hypotheses.
"To say that I was impressed with Food Chain is an understatement. Not only does the program reinforce the concepts of the interconnectedness of natural systems, it also challenges students to think critically."
Dr. Dean Goodwin AP Environmental Science Teacher KUA, Meriden, NH
Food Chain challenges students to think critically as they hone their skills in applying the scientific method. Students are guided through the steps of formulating and testing hypotheses, interpreting data, analyzing graphs, and suggesting reasons for the results.
Systems Thinking concepts introduced while exploring a lake ecosystem are reinforced in an optional Generalizing section. Students are challenged to apply concepts like “feedback loops” and “unintended consequences” to issues in their own life.