In this exercise, students will classify and analyze data on spider communities to explore the concept of biological diversity and experience its application to decision-making in biological conservation. This exercise was adapted to further develop data analysis skills. Specifically, this exercise asks students to 1) create an appropriate and informative graph, 2) interpret trends and patterns in the graph, 3) understand and correctly solve equations, and 4) make well-reasoned conclusions from data.
Featured in: Lessons in Conservation: Student Learning Issue
See also:
Parrots and Palms: Analyzing Data to Determine Best Management Strategies and Sustainable Harvest Levels
Practice Your Data Analysis Skills!
What is Biodiversity?
Theme: Communicating and Teaching Science
Language: English
Region: Global
Keywords: biodiversity, conservation, data analysis, planning
Components: 3
Download All*
* Login to access educator-only files
Source: HHMI BioInteractive
This video introduces students to how scientists survey biodiversity using a variety of methods for different types of species. Check out HHMI BioInteractive for an accompanying student worksheet on the topic.
Author: J.P. Gibbs, I. Harrison, J. Griffiths
Adapted by: A. Bravo, A. Porzecanski
Author: J.P. Gibbs, I. Harrison, J. Griffiths
Adapted by: A. Bravo, A. Porzecanski