Tooltip
These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.

Investigating the Biodiversity of Different Habitats

In this resource, students investigate the biodiversity of different habitats, looking at the relative abundance of different plant species. Students carry out a practical activity in the school grounds or other green space, comparing the diversity of habitats using Cairns' sequential comparison index.

Their investigation is put in a STEM Careers context, through a short video case study of Amy Eycott, landscape ecologist for the Forestry Commission. Students  find out more about the skills and knowledge that she needs for her job, and how her scientific research has had an impact on government policy. 

As an extension activity, students can then use Google Earth to see the areas they have investigated within the context of their surroundings, and make a preliminary assessment of the opportunities for movement of species between areas.

This resource includes full teachers' notes, foundation, higher, extension and plenary activities, a case study, a students' worksheet and technical notes for the practical.

Show health and safety information

Please be aware that resources have been published on the website in the form that they were originally supplied. This means that procedures reflect general practice and standards applicable at the time resources were produced and cannot be assumed to be acceptable today. Website users are fully responsible for ensuring that any activity, including practical work, which they carry out is in accordance with current regulations related to health and safety and that an appropriate risk assessment has been carried out.

Information on the permitted use of this resource is covered by the Category One Content section in STEM Learning’s Terms and conditions.