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In this outdoor biology and math activity, learners estimate the size of a population of organisms too numerous to count. In a process similar to that used by real field biologists, learners count all the "organisms" (beans) scattered in a small, measured area known as a quadrat, then use that count as the basis for estimating the total population in the whole study site. Learners also examine sources of error while using this estimation technique.
- 45 to 60 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- wire squares, 10 cm X 10 cm
- index cards
- pencils
- data board or large drawing pad
- marking pen
- 1 pound of bean bugs (mung beans, split peas, lentils)
- masking tape
- wire cutters and pliers
- 2 meter sticks or meter tapes
- 1 ball of string
- 4 large nails
Subjects
-
Life Sciences
-
Diversity of Life
- Plants
- Animals
-
Ecology
- Populations
-
Diversity of Life
-
Mathematics
-
Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Collection
- Data Representation
-
Geometry
- Plane Geometry
-
Measurement
- Units of Measurement
- Size and Scale
- Rate
-
Number and Operations
- Multiples and Factors
- Reasoning and Proof
- Representation
-
Data Analysis and Probability
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Asking Questions
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
-
The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Animals
- Nature and Environment
- Outdoor Activity
- Physical Activity
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, The Regents of the University of California, 1982