Begin with an engaging discussion about the diversity of life and introduce the kingdom Protista. Highlight the unique characteristics of protists that set them apart from other kingdoms.
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Protists
Learning Objectives
- Understand the diverse characteristics and classification of protists within the kingdom Protista.
- Differentiate between unicellular and multicellular protists with examples such as diatoms and giant kelp.
- Identify the different modes of obtaining energy among protists, including photosynthesis and feeding on other organisms.
- Learn about the reproductive strategies of protists, including asexual reproduction and complex life cycles in some multicellular protists.
Introduction and Hook
Show a brief video clip to capture students' interest and provide a visual introduction to the world of protists.
Direct Instruction
Explain the diverse characteristics and classification of protists within the kingdom Protista. Use examples such as diatoms and giant kelp to illustrate the differences between unicellular and multicellular protists.
Discuss the different modes of obtaining energy among protists, including photosynthesis and feeding on other organisms. Highlight the importance of these processes in the ecosystem.
Guided Exploration
Facilitate a class discussion on the reproductive strategies of protists, including asexual reproduction and complex life cycles. Encourage students to think about how these strategies help protists survive in various environments.
Use the 'Characteristics of Organisms' video to support understanding by illustrating fundamental life processes of various organisms, including protists.
Hands-On Activity
Have students observe pond water samples under a microscope to identify and classify different protists. Encourage them to draw and label their observations.
Provide the 'Classifying Pond Organisms' worksheet to guide students in identifying and categorizing organisms based on their characteristics.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research a specific protist and present their findings to the class. Encourage them to include information on its habitat, energy acquisition, and reproduction.
Check for Understanding
Use the 'What Are Organisms?' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of protists and their characteristics.
Review and Reflection
Conduct a class discussion to review the key concepts learned about protists. Encourage students to reflect on how protists contribute to the diversity of life.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'Reproduction – Comprehension' assessment to test students' understanding of reproductive processes in protists.
Encourage students to explore further by trying the unit quiz to assess their overall understanding of the diversity of life.
Try the Quiz
