Predators and Prey Module

This module introduces students to models used to predict populations of organisms within an ecosystem. Students will analyze a simple predator-prey system, optionally building and “running” a simple, spreadsheet based model. They will compare the population graphs produced by the model with actual historical data from a similar, simple predator-prey system. Then, students will collect data on “virtual dives” in simulated marine habitats. They will gather biomass data for predators and their prey in complex marine food webs and compare changes over time to the behaviors of the simpler systems with just a single predator and its lone prey.

The following are all the resources for implementing this module:

• Module Activities
  Detailed instructions to the eight activities making up this module. All instructions are made available as printable HTML pages.
• VES-V Virtual Dive Tutorial
  This tutorial introduces students to the capabilities and navigation of the VES-V software through a virtual dive. The worksheets are made available as printable HTML pages. (This tutorial is the same as Activity I in each of the three modules.)
• Student Data Worksheets
  Worksheets needed by students to carry out the module activities. The worksheets are made available as printable HTML pages.
• NGSS aligned to this module
  All the Next Generation Science Standards - Disciplinary Core Ideas, Cross Cutting Concepts, and Science & Engineering Principles - aligned to this module’s activities and linked to the NGSS Website.
• Presentation Graphics Used in this Module
  All graphics presented in the Teacher Pages/Activity Instructions. Suitable for projection or presentation while teaching these activities. Click to download.

• Accessibility Acknowledgement for the Virtual Ecosystem Scenario Viewer (VES-V)

  NOAA is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually striving to improve the user experience for everyone, and applying the relevant accessibility standards. Despite our best efforts to ensure accessibility of our content, there may be some limitations. Below is a description of known limitations with VES-V.

  Limitations and Alternatives

  The VES-V is visually driven in nature and supported by the third-party "perspectx.com." Color contrast, assistive technology support, and alternate text may be unsupported.

  The following activities within the Predators and Prey Module may be completed without the use of VES-V software. As some of these were originally designed to be used with it, they will require some adaptation by the educator to make them accessible for students with disabilities.

  • Activity II: Setting up a Predator-Prey Model
  • Activity III: Running a Predator-Prey Model
  • Activity IV: Analyzing Results of a Predator-Prey Model
  • Activity V: Model Validation with a Predator-Prey Historical Example
  • Activity VII: Revisit Initial Question - Enough Seafood?

  We welcome your feedback. Please let us know if you encounter accessibility barriers on any of our education content: nos.info@noaa.gov