Deserts: an ecology and earth science unit

Description

Why Choose Wild Earth Lab?

Drawing on my environmental science background, I create accurate, engaging resources that make teaching easier. Original, thoughtfully designed visuals and hands-on activities help bring the real experience of being a scientist into your classroom.

Age Range

Designed with flexibility in mind, these materials can be adapted for learners from elementary and middle school, making them suitable for mixed-age groups.

What’s Included?

(44 PDF pages total)

• PART 1: INTRO & DESERT FORMATION: i
  • • Introductory reading
    • Vocab list
    • Deserts of the world map
    • Desert formation reading
    • Global circulation patterns diagram
    • The rain shadow effect diagram
    • Unlabeled rain shadow effect diagram for student practice
    • Reading comprehension questions
• PART 2: DESERT ECOLOGY:
  • • Introductory reading on the desert ecosystem + writing prompt
    • Desert adaptations handouts (2)
    • Day & night handout + writing prompt
    • Who is active in the desert handout? (nocturnal, diurnal, and crepuscular animals)
• PART 3: DESERT PLANTS & ANIMALS:
  • • Desert species research project worksheets
    • Desert animals classroom poster
    • Desert plants classroom poster
    • Three-part cards of desert plants and animals
    • Information cards for desert plants and animals
    • Flashcard sorting activities (e.g., compare and contrast)
    • Build a desert food web activity
• Instructor materials: Includes an overview/directions page and an answer key
• Access to additional online materials: background information and more ways to expand on this topic.

Good to Know

• Artwork & setting: These materials can be useful for studying any desert. However, the artwork within this unit was inspired by the Sonoran Desert in particular. While the illustrations depict iconic members of Sonoran Desert ecosystems (e.g., saguaro cactus, Gila woodpecker), the general types of plants and animals featured in the unit have wide ranges and are found in many deserts (e.g., cacti, birds)
• Single-classroom use: Materials are for personal and single-classroom use only and may not be shared or distributed. Contact me about multiple licenses for schools or organizations.
• Digital product: This is an instant PDF download, designed for printing on standard 8.5 × 11-inch paper. Due to the nature of digital products, purchases are non-refundable.
• Adult supervision: Activities should be completed with appropriate adult supervision.
• Terms & Conditions: See the full terms & conditions.