2.3 ASSIGNMENT: Build Bottle Ecosystem (Due April 6)

Build a Bottle Ecosystem (20 points)

Purpose: To determine if hydro-logical factors have an influence on seed germination rate and growth.  READ HERE about the basics of a TerrAqua column.  

Step 1:  Build your TerrAqua Column bottle ecosystem.

1.  Read HERE about selecting and preparing your bottles. 

2.  Build your ecosystem.  READ HERE for instructions.  Be sure to build option 2. 

3. Use the string, and seeds provided in your Earth Science kit.  HERE are the instructions for filling the ecosystem.

4.  Plant 4-5 seeds evenly spaced in your soil.  Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when assembling the ecosystem.  Once you have the ecosystem build and the seeds planted, position a thermometer (from your science kit) inside of the bottle.  You will use this to record the temperature inside the bottle as the seeds germinate and grow.  You MUST find a place for your bottle that will remain at 60 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer for the entirety of the project.  Adequate sunlight is also necessary.

Step 2: Pick a variable to test.

READ HERE for some background information on the materials we are using in our experiment.  As a class, we will be comparing the effect of covering the bottle on seed germination and growth.  We learned last quarter that covering a bottle will increase the temperature slightly, and cause condensation to collect inside of the bottle.  For this experiment we will be dividing into two groups.  Group A will keep their bottle covered with the lid for the entire experiment.  Group B will leave the lid off.  

The lid is part A in the diagram of how to build the system.  

          Group A:  Students with last names A-J

          Group B:  Students with last names K-Z

Step 3: Record your Observations.  We will be observing and collecting data for 5 weeks.  Your data and observations will be submitted every week.  You can use this Google doc to record observations.

Be sure to record the temperature and height of the plants each week.  Just one data set per week is adequate.  You can take pictures for observations, or write a description.  

Step 4:  Submit your assignment this week.  

To submit your assignment this week, you need to submit a picture or short video showing your completed ecosystem.  

If you need help submitting assignments, refer to THIS PAGE for help.