Module 3 - A Delicate Balance

UPDATED 10/15

A Delicate Balance (Module 3) is designed to guide students as they discover the unintended consequences that may result from either the introduction of an exotic species into an established community or removal of a native species from an established community. The learning experiences (LE’s) are based on real scenarios within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.  They include examples of drastic changes caused by the introduction of a non-native species, the loss of most or all of a native species, and the recovery of a species that was nearly locally extinct.  Students are encouraged to find and study similar situations that exist in their home regions. 

A Delicate Balance introduces students to key concepts through two real-life scenarios from the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Return of the Clowns, Scenario A, is based on reintroduction efforts of the river otter in select areas in Pennsylvania. Invasion of the Snakeheads, Scenario B, is based on the discovery of snakeheads, a non-native fish species, in Delaware.



Teacher and Student Materials for download

Student Assessment of Prior Learning

Scenario A: Return of the Clowns

Narrative Overview
Alignment to Academic Standards
Preparing for the Learning Experiences
Scientific and Historical Background Information for the Teacher

Learning Experience #1 - Otters, Otters Everywhere
Lesson Plan
Opportunities for Student Assessment

Student Procedures and Data Sheets
Student Procedures
You Otter be an Otter
More is not Always Better
Exit Interview

Learning Experience #2 - Bring ‘Em Back
Lesson Plan
Opportunities for Student Assessment

Student Procedures and Data Sheets
Student Procedures
Why Should we Care
Welcome Home

 

Scenario B: Invasion of the Snakeheads

Narrative Overview
Alignment to Academic Standards
Preparing for the Learning Experiences
Scientific and Historical Background Information for the Teacher

Learning Experience #1 - Frankenfish
Lesson Plan
Opportunities for Student Assessment

Student Procedures and Data Sheets
Student Procedures
What is a Snakehead and Why Should I Care?
Fishzilla Control

Learning Experience #2 - Maintaining a Balance
Lesson Plan
Opportunities for Student Assessment

Student Procedures and Data Sheets
Student Procedures
Gotta Have It
Here then Gone
New Kid in the Neighborhood