Ecosystems and Human Influences

This unit is expiring
The expiry date of this unit is 31/07/2024.

Overview

Framework:
Access to HE
Level:
Level 3
Unit No:
QU025851
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
Not available

Qualification Grading Type

Graded

Grade Descriptors

  • GD1-Understanding the subject
  • GD2-Application of knowledge
  • GD7-Quality

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand the structure of ecosystems.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explain the components of ecosystems.

  • 1.2
    Discuss how abiotic factors affect distribution of species.
  • 1.3

    Analyse inter-relationships between species.

2

Understand the flow of energy in ecosystems.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Explain food chains and food webs.
  • 2.2

    Analyse the flow of energy through a food chain.

    It is important that assessment tasks allow genuine ANALYSIS of energy flow, e.g. using examples of energy values

  • 2.3
    Explain photosynthesis as a cellular process which introduces energy and food chains.
3

Know some of the influences of humans on ecosystems.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Discuss causes and effects of global warming.

  • 3.2

    Discuss causes and effects of loss of biodiversity.

  • 3.3
    Discuss one other human influence on ecosystems.
4

Know how to carry out ecological sampling and understand conservation techniques.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1
    Analyse sample data from a habitat to explain distribution of species.
  • 4.2

    Compare conservation techniques used in more than one habitat.

  • 4.3

    Explain two ecological sampling techniques.