OpenSciEd B.2, Lesson 3: Decomposition Investigation
Task
Use this investigation with OpenSciEd HS Biology Unit B.2, Lesson 3 during Parts 10–11. Tuva has digitized the Decomposition Investigation Data and Sensemaking handout. Our version of these sections provides students with opportunities to deepen data sensemaking using data visualizations. This is not a standalone lesson, and it should be used in conjunction with the OpenSciEd Teacher Edition. Where This Investigation Fits into the Storyline In the last lesson, students learned that the peat in the permafrost has not fully decomposed, even though it may be hundreds or thousands of years old, and they wondered why. Then, during the first part of this lesson, they decided to investigate this question using a model in which yeast represents decomposers in the peat. When to Use Tuva Use this Tuva Investigation on Day 1 of the lesson. Complete Parts 1–9 of the lesson outside of Tuva. (Use pages 9–23 of the Teacher Edition.) Have students log into Tuva before starting Part 10. Once in Tuva, students will read and follow the investigation procedure, record their data in a Tuva Table, use the Tuva graphing tools to make sense of their data, and answer the investigation questions. During Part 11, students can use the data visualizations and written responses to participate in a small-group comparison. Note: Sample data for the investigation is included in Tuva Step 4 for your convenience. Use the sample data if a student is absent or working virtually. What Comes Next Students will utilize what they learned during the investigation for additional discussions on Day Two. Otherwise, the remainder of the lesson will be completed outside of Tuva.
In the last lesson, we figured out that peat is made from ancient plants, is carbon-based, and releases a great deal of carbon dioxide and energy when it burns. We also know that peat has not fully decomposed, even though it may be hundreds or thousands of years old. In this investigation you will be answering: Why is there so much peat that has not decomposed in the permafrost? We've decided to investigate this question using a model in which yeast represents decomposers in the peat. Click Next to get started.
Topics and standards: Biology, Life Science, HS-ESS2-6, HS-LS1-5, HS-LS1-7, HS-LS1-6, HS-LS2-5, HS-LS2-4, HS-LS2-3, HS-ETS1-2, OpenSciEd, 3.1.9-12.E, 3.1.9-12.F, 3.1.9-12.G, 3.1.9-12.H, 3.1.9-12.J, 3.1.9-12.K, 3.3.9-12.L